Elder Abuse Training for Senior Nutrition VolunteersRecognizing and Reporting the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Elderly & Disabled Adults
Criteria OneCriteria TwoCriteria ThreeThe adult is reported to be disabledThe disabled adult is alleged to be abused, neglected, and/or exploitedThe disabled adult cannot access essential services & is in need of protectionThree criteria must be alleged to be considered an Adult Protective Services (APS) report:Criteria for APS Reports
123DefinitionsDISABLED ADULTAn individual at least 18 years old and physically or mentally incapacitatedOLDER ADULTAn adult age65 years or olderCARETAKERAnyone responsible for the care of an adult. Can include a family member, private contract, individual, or volunteer
123AbuseThe willful/intentional infliction of pain, injury, mental anguish, unreasonable confinement or willful depravation of services necessary for health and wellbeing.NeglectThe failure of the caretaker to provide services necessary to maintain the physical or mental health of the older or disabled adult.ExploitationThe illegal or improper used of the older or disabled adults resources for profit or advantage. 4Self-NeglectA disabled or older adult who lives alone or has no caretaker. Unable to maintain mental or physical health services.Definitions
Avoidance of eye contact01Confusion02Hesitance to talk openly03Withdrawal04Change in appetite or sleep patterns05Suspicious or paranoid behaviors06Radical change in behavior07Depression08Common Indicators of Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation
Abuse Examples 123456Unusual or unexplained bruises, welts, burnsBed sores, weight loss, dry skin & lipsInadequate shelter or medical careInappropriate clothing for weather conditionsExcessive chills or sweatingIntentional confinement in a dangerous environment
Caretaker Neglect Examples 12345Failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing & attentionFailure to provide or arrange for medical needsFailure to manage resources to meet needsFailure to provide a safe living situationFailure to provide adequate supervision
Exploitation Examples 123456Unexplained withdrawal of money from bank accountsUse of deceit, treachery or coercion to obtain money or assetsInappropriate sexual activityDifference between available assets & lifestyleFund/money mismanagement by caregiverUnusually large payments for services
Self-Neglect Examples 123456Forgetfulness in lighting or turning off gas stovesAimless wandering at nightInability to care for oneself: cook, dress, bathe, medicate. Unusually thin & dehydrated.Living in an unsafe dwelling or environmentInability to communicateInappropriate use of medication
DUTY TO REPORTWhen you suspect mistreatment of an older or disabled adult, NC law requires you to contact Adult Protective Services at the Department of Social Services in the county where the adult is living. You will remain anonymous and are protected from civil and criminal liability for reports made in good faith.Hours of OperationMonday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.Business Hours phone: 704.296.4300Hotline: 704.296.6124 After Hours: 704.289.1591Fax: 704.296.4404Information Needed to Report •Name & address of individual•Individual’s Age & date of birth •Name of caregiver (if any) •Details re: why protection is necessary •Information on mental/physical status•Name of others who may provide information (if available)
What Happens After a Report is Screened In?If the report is accepted, Workers make face to face, unannounced visits to older adult or adult with disabilityWork with adult, family, & multidisciplinary team to secure essentials such as food, safe housing, and medical carePlan with & support adult & family/caregiver to identify, remedy & prevent abuse, neglect & exploitationReport mistreatment to DA & regulatory agencies; initiate court action as necessary
Thank you for completing the Elder Abuse and Exploitation training for Senior Nutrition Volunteers!