Reporting abuse

Who must report abuse and exploitation of the elderly and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

•Health care providers

•Coroners

•Hospital and long-term care workers

•Mental health professionals

•Social workers

•Dentists

•Police and sheriff’s deputies

•Court-appointed guardians and conservators

•Transportation providers

•Case managers

•Firefighters

•Pharmacists

•County human services employees

•Financial institutions

•Caretakers

•Emergency medical workers

•Physical therapists

•Chiropractors

•Veterinarians

•Clergy

•Code enforcement officers

How to identify abuse and exploitation

• An abuser often accompanies the victim to various appointments and places. Talk to the victim alone.

• Ask about bruising or skin tears.

• Examine feet for sores and poor hygiene.

• Confusion over financial transactions could be a symptom of exploitation.

• Confusion over wills and power of attorney documents also could be a symptom of exploitation.

• Wiring or withdrawing large or unusual sums of money are signs of financial abuse.

Questions to ask

•Have you relied on anyone to help bathe, shop, dress, bank or prepare meals and do you feel comfortable with them?

•Has anyone prevented you from getting food, clothes, medication or medical supplies?

•Has anyone prevented you from being with family, friends or from going to church or social events?

•Has anyone pressured you to sign papers or use your money against your will?