Elder or Dependent Adult Neglect (Treatments)

If you suspect that a senior is being neglected by his or her caretaker, contact your county's Adult Protective Service's unit or a medical professional. All calls to APS agencies are kept confidential. If the APS unit suspects that elder abuse laws are being violated, the agency will assign a caseworker to carry out an investigation.

If you are a caretaker and feel overwhelmed, seek therapy, help from other family members, or consider other care options for the elderly person. Many state and nonprofit agencies also offer respite services to provide family members with temporary relief from the stress of caring for a senior. Stay healthy and get medical care for yourself when necessary. Find a support group for caregivers of the elderly which can provide a forum to discuss the issues around caregiving. Alleviating caretaker stress is, in many cases, the first step toward preventing elder neglect.

Sources:

• National Center on Elder Abuse
• American Geriatric Society
• National Elder Abuse Incidence Study