In addition to physical indicators, the authors note that elder abuse can be recognized by behavioral or other indicators as well. Behaviorally, the elder person might be emotionally upset or agitated, withdrawn, fearful, depressed, and so on. Other indicators include an unexplained inability to pay bills, and a disparity between the income, assets and lifestyle.
To report cases of such abuse, adult protective services are available to receive and investigate reports. It is perhaps good to mention here that a paramedic should carefully examine the patient in question before making any reports. He or she should also interview the individual concerned to determine and substantiate suspected abuse. If such a report is made without grounds, it could needlessly damage the reputation of the individuals involved; which in turn could lead to legal expenses for the hospital.
However, if abuse that occurs is not reported, the consequences could be even worse, resulting in further injury or death for the victim. This is why training around these issues are so vital for paramedics who work with children and the elderly Any suspicion of immediate physical danger or harm should therefore be reported right away. When investigating...
(2006, Jun) Elder Abuse. Retrieved from: http://www.crcvc.ca/docs/elder_abuse.pdf
Children's Memorial Hospital. (2010). Training pre-hospital providers to recognize abuse and neglect. Retrieved from: http://www.childrensmemorial.org/depts/emergency_medicine/beyond.aspx
Department of Health Services County of Los Angeles. (2010). Suspected Child Abuse / Neglect Reporting Guidelines. Retrieved from: http://ems.lacounty.gov/Policies/Ref800/822.pdf
Groth, S.J. And Sumner, J.A. (1999, Jan). Recognition and Management of Elder Abuse. American College of Emergency Physicians. Retrieved from http://www.acep.org/practres.aspx?id=30148
New York State Law (2002). NYS Mandated Reporting of Child Abuse & Neglect. Retrieved from http://www.wremsco.org/abuse.htm
