Chapter 5

E LDER ABUSE IDENTIFICATION AND RESPONSES

How to Prevent and Respond to Abuse and Neglect

It is important to be aware of the types of abuse most often experienced by older adults and IPs so you can help keep them safe and respond to any signs of abuse you notice. Additionally, frequent communication and contact with the IP will allow you to understand their typical behavior and moods, so if there is a shift, you can explore what led to the change. If the IP is in a residential facility, it is important to visit frequently and check in on the IP through phone calls to them and their caregivers between visits. Your frequent contact may help prevent potential abuse or allow you to notice and respond to any abuse quickly.

The signs of abuse in the next section are not all-encompassing. There may be other signs of abuse, or some of the signs listed below may be present without abuse occurring. It is important to follow up on any concerns and alert those who can investigate further if abuse is suspected. As a guardian, you are responsible for the IP's safety and well-being. If you have concerns, do not hesitate to contact one of the following:

• 9-1-1
• oSerious and immediate danger or emergencies
• o24 hours a day

Pennsylvania Elder Abuse Hotline and Adult Protective Services

○ 1-800-490-8505

• oNon-emergency situations
• o24 hours a day
• oReports can be made anonymously, and reporters have legal protections from retaliation, discrimination, and prosecution
• oFor adults age 60+ and adults ages 18-59 with disabilities, the Hotline takes reports of potential abuse regardless of whether the person lives at home, in a nursing or residential facility, or other setting. Adult Protective Services will investigate all reports
• Pennsylvania Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program 717-783-8975