Vulnerable Adult Abuse, Neglect and Financial Exploitation

Older Americans and adults with disabilities are often the targets of abuse. This is because they are often unable to make a complaint or are afraid to lodge a complaint.

Vulnerable adult abuse is especially tragic because in many of these cases the abuser is in a position of trust; as a caregiver, a guardian, a trustee, or even a family member. By being aware of the signs of possible abuse, neglect and exploitation, you can help protect victims.

Some Common signs of financial exploitation include:

• Social Isolation;
• Inability to pay for healthcare;
• New power of attorney by unknown person;
• Lack of funds to pay for common life expenses.

Some common signs of physical abuse include:

• Frequent unexplained injuries or complaints of pain without any obvious injury;
• Burns or bruises suggesting the use of instruments, cigarettes, etc.;
• Passive, withdrawn, and emotionless behavior;
• Lack of reaction to pain;
• Patient reports physical abuse.

Signs of sexual abuse include:

• Sexually transmitted diseases;
• Injuries to genital area;
• Difficulty sitting and walking;
• Fear of being alone with caretaker;
• Patient reports sexual abuse.

Some common signs of neglect include:

• Obvious malnutrition;
• Lack of personal cleanliness;
• Individual is routinely dressed in torn or dirty clothing;
• Obvious fatigue and listlessness;
• Person is begging for food or water;
• Person is in need of medical or dental care;
• Person is left unattended for long periods of time.

Abuse of vulnerable adults is a crime. If you suspect vulnerable adult abuse, whether its at home, in a nursing home, or anywhere else, contact your local police.

You should also contact the Department of Human Service, Division of Long Term Services and Supports through Dakota at Home 1-833-663-9673, or the Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit at 605-773-4102.

Elder Abuse Crime Statistics (Adobe PDF File)