Active caregivers don’t let living a long distance away and other obstacles stand in the way of keeping their senior loved ones safe and secure. However, they do need to come up with strategies to manage their roles and prevent problems such as neglect. Continue reading to learn what to look for as a long-distance family caregiver to spot elder abuse from afar.
Bedsores
These pressure sores are one of the most common signs of neglect. They’re often due to improper medical care and lack of assistance. Seniors who live sedentary lifestyles or are left in their beds or wheelchairs for most of the day can develop bedsores. The unrelieved pressure on the skin is what causes the sores, and they increase the risk of infections and life-threatening illnesses. Ask your siblings and trusted family members who live nearby to make unplanned visits to your loved one’s home to check for bedsores and other signs of elder abuse.
For many seniors in Victoria, BC, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Home Care Assistance, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.
Unexplained Changes in Spending Habits
It’s common for seniors to make individual purchases from time to time, such as buying a handbag or splurging on a bigger television or new smartphone. However, regular changes in spending habits could be a sign of elder abuse. Some family members and friends could pressure your loved one to purchase items for them and their children or cover the costs of their rent, utility bills, or college tuition. Monitor your loved one’s spending habits from afar. You may need to press charges against the person who is exploiting your parent’s finances to prevent it from happening again.
Poorly Groomed Appearance
Dirty hair and clothing could be a warning sign that your parent isn’t properly groomed. Maintaining good hygiene can reduce the risk of infections and various diseases. Taking regular baths, washing his or her hair, and putting on clean clothes could also boost your loved one’s mental and emotional health. Your loved one’s shirts, pants, and accessories should fit properly. Wearing too little clothing could cause discomfort and other health issues.
Families shouldn’t have to worry about finding reliable elderly home care. Victoria Home Care Assistance is a leading provider of elderly home care. We offer a proprietary program called the Balanced Care Method, which uses holistic methods to promote senior health, our caregivers and Care Managers are available 24/7, and all of our in-home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Isolation
If your parent is withdrawing from family and friends who live nearby or not answering your phone calls, he or she could be experiencing elder abuse. Your loved one’s primary caregiver should give you daily reports and encourage your loved one to answer your calls and attend social outings with others, as these are things that can prevent neglect and abuse. If your loved one is living with another family member and not answering your phone calls, have a wellness check performed by local authorities. It would also be a good idea if you considered moving your loved one in with you or another trusted family member to prevent isolation and neglect.
One of the best ways to prevent elder abuse is to hire a trustworthy, compassionate home caregiver. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide at-home care, Home Care Assistance has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering proprietary programs like our holistic Balanced Care Method and around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (250) 592-4881 today.