June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time where we renew our commitment to protecting the safety, rights, and dignity of older adults in our communities.
Every person deserves to feel supported at every stage of life. Sadly, many older adults face struggles that often go unnoticed.
Elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, financial, or the result of neglect, is more common than many realize, and it often happens behind closed doors. According to the National Council on Aging, studies show that only 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse are ever reported to authorities.
Due to the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, abuse among older adults aged 60+ doubled, rising from 1 in 10 to 1 in 5. Communities, caregivers, and many organizations are now speaking up and taking action to protect older adults.
By learning to recognize the warning signs, we can all help prevent elder abuse and support those who may be experiencing it. Here are five common signs that may signal an older adult is experiencing abuse:
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Physical Injuries: Not All Accidents Are Accidental
Even though occasional falls and bruises can be a normal part of aging, repeated or unexplained injuries deserve a closer look.
What to look for:
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Bruises
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Broken bones
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Pressure sores
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Burns
If your loved ones seem hesitant to talk about them or confused about where they came from, this could suggest that something serious is happening. Opening a conversation can reveal the challenges they may be facing behind the scenes.
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Isolation: Stepping Away from What They Love
It's normal for hobbies and interests to change as we age, but if your loved one has experienced a sudden shift in what they love to do or seem withdrawn from their regular activities, this may be a quiet sign that something is wrong.
What to look for:
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They've become isolated from their friends
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They're avoiding social situations and pastimes they once looked forward to
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Increased anxiety, depression, and fears
The stress they experience can have negative effects on their social life and well-being. It's okay to check in with your loved ones and ask questions with care and patience.
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Neglect: When Care Falls Short
Regular access to care and resources allows our loved ones to have the support and comfort that they need. When things like medication, mobility aids, meals, and medical attention are overlooked, the consequences can be serious and diminish their overall health.
What to look for:
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Unexplained weight loss
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Dehydration
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Poor hygiene
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Missing items like walkers, hearing aids, or glasses
These signs might indicate that someone isn't receiving the proper care they need to live a comfortable life.
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Sexual Abuse: Silent Signs
Older adults may be especially vulnerable due to physical limitations, decline in cognitive ability, or their dependency on others for care.
What to look for:
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Injuries in areas that are easily hidden, such as bruises around the breasts or genital areas
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A fear of undressing
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Noticeable discomfort near a certain person
Everyone deserves attentive care and attention to feel safe in their lives. 
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Financial Abuse: Spotting Exploitation
Financial abuse can be difficult to see, but its impact can be devastating. Not only is their money being stripped away, but also their independence.
Older adults are often targets for financial exploitation. After a lifetime of hard work and building savings, many have built significant nest eggs. Unfortunately, this wealth can attract scammers and abusers looking to take advantage of them.
Many seniors also didn't grow up in the age of digital technology, leaving them vulnerable to online fraud, phishing attempts, and other digital scams. This financial abuse can take many different forms.
What to look for:
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Unpaid bills
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Unusual or sudden changes in spending habits
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Changes in their will
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Fraudulent signatures on documents
These signs may signal that someone is taking advantage of an older adult's finances, especially if they are in a vulnerable or dependent position. Raising awareness and having judgement-free conversations can help protect those who are most at risk.
By paying close attention to our loved ones and staying informed, we can help protect them from harm that's often hard to see. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and look carefully at the signs. Kind conversations, supportive questions, and careful observation can help elderly adults feel safe and supported through these difficult experiences.
Mecklenburg County Adult Protective Services
Call 704.336.CARE (2273) to report suspected elder abuse.
National Elder Fraud Hotline
Call 833.FRAUD.11 (833-372-8311) for confidential help with financial exploitation.
Greater Charlotte Hope Line
Call 980.771.4673 to connect with an advocate today
If you're ever unsure:
Call 911
