The number one type of elder care abuse is actually financial abuse. As a former owner of a senior home care agency, I witnessed many situations where the family members went beyond the call of duty to assist a senior loved one with their care needs. I also saw situations where sometimes just one family member was inappropriately trying to take advantage of the senior's kindness and financial generosity.
Unfortunately, seniors are an easy target for those looking to take advantage, especially when they are lonely and hungry for friendship and attention from anyone who will offer it. At the same time, there may be adult children who have drug or alcohol addictions which lead them to take advantage of a senior parent with memory loss or who has no one else to turn to for assistance. I had one client who was retired and living on a healthy pension as a retired government employee but his daughter with a cocaine addiction continually stole his checks and nearly every piece of furniture in his house before the state appointed a court-ordered guardian.
If you are caring for a senior or have a senior neighbor of friend who you feel is being abused, either from physical neglect or financially, the first step is to call your local elder abuse hotline. They will professionally step in to assess and manage the situation for the senior's benefit. Confidentiality is provided.
You can find the contact in your state on Caregiverlist's "by state" list.
senior, caregiving, elderabuse