S.P.E.A.K. U.P. to Protect Older Adults

Elder abuse is defined as intentional or negligent actions by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm to a vulnerable elder. Most often, abuse of vulnerable adults happens behind closed doors. Buncombe County Health and Human Services wants to bring this issue out into the light to ensure that our elderly and vulnerable adults are respected, safe, and protected.

North Carolina’s Adult Protective Services law provides protection to all adults over the age of 18 who have a disability and who might be abused, neglected or exploited. This can look like a caretaker that withholds needed medical care for an adult with a disability, a disabled adult who is being physically or mentally abused, or someone who is taking advantage of the finances or resources of a disabled adult.  Specific to elder abuse, national data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows that seniors across all socio-economic groups, cultures, and races are affected by elder abuse and that the most common form of elder abuse continues to be financial exploitation. In Buncombe County, 78% of reports received are for adults living in their own home.

Remember to S.P.E.A.K U.P. if you notice something that is unsettling to you. It’s imperative that we advocate for older and disabled adults who might be scared, embarrassed, or unable to disclose that someone is hurting them. Specifically, you should look for the following signs:

Sudden changes in behavior or finances
Physical injuries, dehydration, or malnourishment
Extreme withdrawal, depression or anxiety
Absence of basic health care or necessities
Kept away from others
 
Unsanitary living conditions
Personal items or resources missing

“If you notice these signs, give Adult Protective Services a call,” says Cathie Beatty, Adult Protective Services Supervisor. “We work closely with our long term care facilities, families, criminal justice system partners and medical care providers to ensure that individuals and families are able to maintain a safe and healthy standard of care.”

Beatty urges everyone to remember that “North Carolina is a mandatory reporting state which means that we are all required to report suspected abuse or neglect. We really do rely on our community to let us know if they have a concern.”

In Buncombe County, call (828) 250-5800 to make a report if you suspect that an older adult or an adult with a disability is being abused.