Elder abuse can consist of one or more of the following: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect.
Persons who commit elder abuse are often family members or caretakers.
Signs of Elder Abuse
- Bruises, broken bones, abrasions, burns
- Bedsores, unattended medical needs, or weight loss
- Withdrawn personality, changes in an emotional state
- Sudden changes in a financial situation
Steps You Can Take to Avoid Elder Abuse
- Take care of your health
- Keep in touch with friends and family
- Stay active in your community; know your neighbors
- Understand your rights; plan your own future
- Get involved in TRIAD, a partnership between law enforcement, AARP, and senior leaders and group in the community.
- To get involved, call the Virginia Beach Police Department Crime Prevention Unit at (757) 385-1068 or (757) 385-1006.
- Meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at Marion Manor, 5345 Marian Lane in Virginia Beach.
Reporting Elder Abuse
- Call the Police
- Tell a doctor, friend, or family member that you trust
- If you notice signs of abuse in a friend or loved one, ask them about it