Seniors may be showing evidence of self-neglect if they:
*Appear confused.
*Can no longer handle meal preparation, house cleaning, laundry, bathing, or timely bill payment.
*Appear undernourished, dehydrated, over- or under-medicated or are not addressing problems, for instance, with eyesight, hearing or teeth.
*Are responding to numerous solicitations for money by phone or mail — and believe they’ve won the “Canadian lottery” or that buying extra magazines enhances chances to win.
Ninety percent of elder abuse is committed by family members. Half of all cases are committed by children and one in five cases by spouses or partners. Be alert to possible neglect or abuse if:
*A caregiver has problems with drugs, alcohol, violence and emotional instability.
*A caregiver is financially dependent on the older person.
*A “new best friend” appears who is willing to care for the senior for little or no cost.
*There has been a recent change in banking or spending patterns that the senior cannot explain.
*There are bruises or other signs of injury that the senior cannot explain or for which there are conflicting explanations.
*A caregiver isolates an older person from friends and family.
*A family pet seems neglected or abused.
If you suspect problems, here are some tips for addressing them:
*Plan some private time with your older relatives to discuss their care needs. Seniors may not be aware of a gradual decline and may be reluctant or unable to plan for needed care. Support and guidance from family members can help prevent serious problems.
*Introduce yourself to responsible neighbors and friends. Give them your address and phone numbers in case of an emergency.
*Ask your elderly loved one directly if anyone is hurting them, taking their money, insulting them, etc.
*Take your relative to a doctor (preferably a geriatrician, geriatric psychologist or specialist in working with the elderly) for a full evaluation.
*If you suspect your older loved one is at risk, call your local Adult Protective Service. In San Francisco, it’s (415) 557-5230) or check out www.elderabusecenter.org
For general information contact the Office on Aging at (415) 864-6051 or the Elder Care Locator at (800) 677-1116 or go to www.n4a.org/locator.cfm