.                             Physical Abuse Bruises, black eyes, welts, lacerations, rope marks  ( defensive bruising noted on ulnar surface of forearm) Dating of Bruising 0-2 days swollen, tender; 0-5 days red-blue; 5-7 days green; 7-10 days       yellow; 10-14 days brown; 2-4 weeks clear   Unexplained fractures on the skull, nose, and face and in various stages of healing Open wounds, cuts, punctures, untreated injuries, and injuries in various stages of healing Stains, dislocations, and internal injuries/bleeding Laboratory findings of medication overdose or under utilization of prescribed drugs An elder’s report of being hit, slapped, kicked, or mistreated An elder’s sudden change in behavior A caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see an elder alone ( National Center on Elder Abuse)                                                     Sexual Abuse       · Bruises around the breasts or genital area · Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections · Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding · Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing · An elder’s report of being sexually assaulted or raped

Emotional/Psychological Abuse Emotional upset or agitation Extreme withdrawal and non-communication An elder’s report of being verbally or emotionally mistreated                                             Neglect Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated bedsores, and poor personal hygiene Unattended or untreated health problems Hazardous or unsafe living conditions (dirt, fleas, fecal material…) An elder’s report of being neglected

Financial or Material Exploitation Unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions Sudden changes in a bank account or banking practice Abrupt changes in a will or in other financial documents Provisions of substandard care or bills unpaid despite the availability of adequate financial resources ·Discovery of an elder’s signature forged for financial transactions or for the titles of elder’s possessions ·Unexplained transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family; An elder’s report of financial exploitation ( National Center on Elder Abuse)