Elder Abuse - Potential Indicators

I just finished a course on Elder Abuse and was shocked to find how prevalent it is. The causes are varied and, largely unstudied, but it is an area of concern for those of us working with and/or responsible for an elder.

Here is a short list of some common signs that may indicate abuse in your elder:

Fractures and breaks
Cuts, open wounds or punctures
Bruises and abrasions
Sprains or dislocations
Internal bleeding
Change in mood or behavior

Consider activity levels and the elder's particular situation when attempting to evaluate whether there is a concern for abuse.

If a caregiver is involved and doesn't want the elders to have visitors alone or indicates the elder is not available to visitors, this may be a potential indicator for abuse.

It should go without say, but it doesn't:  If an elder reports being hit, slapped, pinched or hurt in anyway this is a potential indicator for abuse and should be investigated.

Caregiving can be stressful and often those providing this valuable service are overworked and underpaid, as the saying goes. They may have additional stressors they bring from home or pressures from employers that may fuel their frustration.

Develop a relationship with the caregiver and visit often and at varied times to be sure you are getting a complete picture or your elder's day.

Medical Management at the Beach

So, your mom, dad, or beloved aunt moved to the shore or beach to enjoy the quality of life they deserve after decades of hard work - Great! Right?  Not if you are hard at work in the city.  You may like to be able to attend doctor's visits with them and make sure everything is going along as well as they tell you.

You are not alone.  Many of us working Joes and Joannes are struggling to balance kids in college (or with small children!) and our older loved ones.  Often in diverse geographic areas.  There you are stuck in the middle.  Literally! 

Why not let me help?  I am a Certified Disability Management Specialist - Masters Prepared and experienced in providing medical management and monitoring.  I would be happy to help you ensure your loved one is faring as well as you hope.

Or perhaps you are the patient and would like some additional, knowledgeable support to ensure you are getting the best possible care.  I work with Nurse Case Managers as well, in the event that your concerns are more complex.

Here is a short list of things I can do for you or your loved one on the DelMarVa: 

Attend doctor's visits

Follow up on doctor's visits for medical records or prescriptions
Arrange an monitor additional services

Serve as a local connection and resource

Home visits and check-ins

Deliver last minute gifts or goodies

Have something else in mind?  Let me know; I am happy to help!

Mary Sherwood Sevinsky, MS, CDMS, CCM

Certified Disability Management Specialist

116 Front St. Unit 737

Lewes, DE 19958

302.644.1827

Mary@Life-Works.Info