What are common signs of elder abuse and neglect, and what steps should a clinician take upon suspicion?

• A. Signs: physical injuries, withdrawal, fear of caregiver, poor hygiene, malnutrition; steps: mandatory reporting per jurisdiction, safety assessment, coordination with protective services.
• B. Signs: improved appetite; steps: celebrate with the patient.
• C. Signs: only financial losses; steps: ignore.
• D. Signs: no signs exist; steps: do nothing.

Answer: (A)

Recognizing elder abuse and neglect involves noticing patterns of harm or risk that point to unsafe or disrespectful care. Common signs include physical injuries, withdrawal or fear around a caregiver, poor personal hygiene, and malnutrition or dehydration. When abuse or neglect is suspected, clinicians have an ethical and legal obligation to respond promptly: report to the appropriate authorities as mandated by law in their jurisdiction, perform a safety assessment of the elder’s living situation, and coordinate with protective services to ensure immediate safety and to develop a protection plan. Thorough documentation of observed signs, disclosures, and caregiver behaviors is essential, and professionals should seek collateral information from other providers as needed while honoring the elder’s preferences and capacity. Other choices miss the broader safety and protective actions that are required, and doing nothing would leave the elder at ongoing risk.