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Abuse in Vulnerable Adults

Table of Contents


Overview

Older adults and adults with physical disabilities or mental or emotional conditions are more vulnerable than other adults. This is because they may not be able to defend themselves, protect themselves, or get help for themselves when injured or abused. Vulnerable adults have a higher risk of being abused by others.

There are three types of abuse.

Abuse in vulnerable adults can include:

If you're worried about possible abuse of a vulnerable adult, talk to that person's doctor. You can also talk to your own doctor if you need help knowing what to do.

To report abuse or to get help, call Adult Protective Services (APS) in your state.

What are the signs of abuse in vulnerable adults?

Along with reports from the vulnerable person about abuse, there are other signs to look for. Get treatment right away if the injury is serious.

Here are examples of signs to watch for.

Signs of abuse:
  • Bruises, black eyes, welts, and rope marks. They can also include cuts, punctures, burns, or injuries that have not been treated.
  • Broken bones, including the skull.
  • Sprains, dislocations, or internal injuries.
  • Broken glasses or dentures.
  • Signs of being restrained.
  • Signs of too much or too little medicine.
  • A vulnerable adult's sudden change in behavior.
  • A caregiver that refuses to let visitors see the person alone.
Signs of possible sexual abuse:
  • Bruises around the breasts or genitals.
  • A sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other genital infection that can't be explained.
  • Bleeding from the vagina or anus that can't be explained.
  • Underwear that is torn or stained.
Signs of emotional or psychological abuse:
  • Seeming upset or nervous.
  • Acting more quiet or paranoid than normal.
  • Behaving strangely. This may include sucking, biting, and rocking.
Signs of neglect:
  • Dehydration (not enough water or fluids).
  • Malnutrition (not enough food).
  • Untreated health problems.
  • Pressure injuries (pressure sores).
  • Unclean clothes, or an unclean body.
  • Living conditions that aren't clean or safe.
Signs of financial abuse:
  • Sudden banking changes, such as large withdrawals.
  • Added names on a vulnerable person's bank card.
  • Sudden changes in a will or other legal document.
  • Missing money or valuable things.
  • Unpaid bills or lack of care, even when money isn't a problem.
  • Forging the person's signature.
  • Relatives showing up who weren't involved before.
  • Paying for services that aren't needed.

What makes abuse more likely?

Things that make abuse more likely include:


Credits for Abuse in Vulnerable Adults

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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