TYPES of ABUSE TOWARD ALZHEIMERS DEMENTIA PERSONS

Let’s take a look at the ways family and/or caregivers can abuse the Alzheimer Dementia person.  We would not want to believe that someone especially a family member or other close relative or caregiver could abuse the vulnerable dementia person.  Believe it!  IT HAPPENS! The following are ways that dementia persons can be abused:

• Physical abuse whereby the person sustains bruises, injuries, sprains, burns, broken eyeglasses, not getting medications as ordered, and caregiver not letting others see “mom/dad.”
• Emotional abuse via threats or restraints shown by the person who has agitation, mumbling, sucking, rocking, and withdrawal from activities.
• Financial abuse by selling properties, cashing checks, forging signature, taking possessions, disposing of memorabilia, emptying the house of lifelong treasures, coercing them to sign documents, reversing wills, POA (power of attorney), and deceiving them to give up control of money.  The person affected has been duped and lied to.                                 
• Sexual abuse is despicable leaving the person with the most horrible of crimes committed against them.  They may have bruises on breasts, genitalia, vaginal area along with anal bleeding and bloody underwear.
• Neglect consists of withholding necessities such as food, medications, and by not providing a safe environment.  The person is subject to falling, malnutrition, bed sores, wandering, incontinence not cleaned, and potential death.

#abuse, #dementia, #alzheimers, #vulnerableadult