PSW Quick Reference Guide to Elder Abuse Identification

1. What is Elder Abuse?

Any action or lack of action, by a person in a position of trust (family, friend, caregiver) that harms the well being of an older person.

2. What do I do? “RIR”

Recognize signs

Physical Abuse: hitting, pinching, slapping, confining or restraining, unusual pattern of injuries, unexplained injuries

Sexual Abuse: unwanted sexual activity and/or contact, making sexual comments, forcing a person to perform a sexual act

Emotional/Verbal Abuse: words or actions that are hurtful and make someone feel unworthy, not respecting older person’s wishes, pets or belongings, denying access to grandchildren or friends, threats

Financial Abuse: misusing older person’s property or funds, theft, forgery, fraud, improper use of Power of Attorney for finances

Neglect: withholding care or basic necessities of life, leaving person in unsafe conditions, not purchasing mobility devices, glasses, dentures, over or under medicating Intervene

Ensure immediate safety

Active listening and reassurance that it is not their fault and they are not alone

Ask what they want to do and let them know help is available Respond

Report to supervisor, debrief with team, follow up as required 3. How do I ask the questions?

How is everything at home?

Do you feel safe? Is there something you’d like to share with me?

Has there been a recent incidence causing you concern? Tell me about it.

Has anyone ever tried to take advantage of you? Tell me about it.

Has anyone ever failed to help you take care of yourself when you needed help?

Do you make decisions for yourself or does someone else make them for you? How do you feel about that?

I noticed you were having difficulty with dressing/eating/ meds… Are you left alone a lot?

I noticed yesterday that your son/daughter/friend seemed very angry with you? Does he often act like that? How does that make you feel?

Elder Abuse Ontario

2 Billingham Road, Suite # 306 Etobicoke, ON M9B 6E1 Tel: 416-***-**** add7l3@r.postjobfree.com www.elderabuseontario.com PSW Quick Reference Guide to Elder Abuse Identification Decision Tree A – PSW’s and Volunteers

(A) Evidence /Suspect Abuse

YES NO

(D) Maintain personal safety

LTC Home/Retirement Home:

Activate Emergency System

Community; Call 911

(C) Is it an emergency situation?

Is the person in immediate danger?

(E) LTC Homes & Retirement Homes:

Mandatory to report to supervisor

Community: report to supervisor and

document

(F) Discuss with

supervisor/Director of Care

Debrief with Team

Follow-up as assigned

Reflect and Increase

understanding of Elder Abuse

(B) Determine actual and potential risk

Contact this candidate