When you can no longer provide full-time care for your aging loved one in Delaware, you may begin weighing your options. One solution is to place your family member in a nursing home. Here, accessibility to medical services and help with day-to-day needs can alleviate some of your stress.
While you would like to believe that qualified caretakers will provide compassionate care and support to your family member, this may not always be the case. Understanding the effects of elder abuse on your loved one’s life may help you to be more aware of the signs of mistreatment so you can intervene right away.
Emotional distress
Considering factors such as age, limited independence and physical ailments, your elderly family member may already face higher risks of mental illness. Abusive treatment can amplify emotional distress and cause fear, anxiety, depression and withdrawal.
If you notice unexplained changes to your family member’s personality, you may have a reason for concern. Some other signs to watch for include the following:
- Mood swings
- Changes to eating habits
- Disinterest
- Forgetfulness
Physical deterioration
Abuse can also affect your loved one’s physical condition. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, National Institute on Aging, elder abuse can contribute to early death. A consistent pattern of injuries or illness can deteriorate your loved one’s physical condition at a rapid pace and reduce the chances of a full recovery.
You can recognize the signs of abuse more readily when you establish a regular visitation schedule. Showing up unannounced at times can also help you get an accurate idea of your loved one’s treatment when you are not around. Taking a proactive approach to advocating for your family member can help you prevent abuse from disrupting his or her well-being.