Recognizing and Responding to Elder Abuse

Have you noticed these changes in relatives, neighbors or friends – particularly if they are elderly or disabled?

  • Unusual activity or no signs of movement from their homes.
  • Increasing confusion. They cease to recognize you, don’t know where they are, or don’t know what day or time it is.
  • Improper dress for the weather
  • Lack of proper personal or medical care
  • Wanderings outside at odd hours or into areas where they might be exposed to danger
  • Unpleasant odors associated with poor hygiene, health or housekeeping
  • Mail, newspapers or other deliveries piled up outside the house when you know the person is at home
  • Bruises, cuts, burns or other untreated injuries that the person dismisses with a vague explanation
  • Suspicion that they might be receiving care from an incompetent, stressed, chemically dependent, or mentally ill caregiver
  • Suspicion that they are being exploited financially, face impending eviction, utility shutoff or fraud
  • Indication that they may be malnourished or dehydrated.
  • Discrepancy between the adult’s financial resources and conditions of housing, level of personal care, nutrition, medical care, clothes, transportation and social opportunities

 

WHAT TO DO:

 

Report it to Omaha Adult Protective Services Intake (402-444-6074)

Or Toll-Free Statewide 24-Hour Hotline (1-800-652-1999)

Or your local Law Enforcement Agency