Which of the following is a red flag sign of elder abuse?

Which of the following is a red flag sign of elder abuse?

• A. Unexplained injuries
• B. Caregiver refuses to leave victim alone
• C. Conflicting stories between victim & caregiver
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Recognizing red flags of elder abuse: unexplained injuries, a caregiver who refuses to leave the older adult alone, and conflicting stories between the elder and caregiver all signal possible abuse or neglect. Unexplained injuries may indicate physical harm or medical neglect, especially when the injuries don’t fit the given story or appear in multiple stages of healing. A caregiver who won’t permit the elder to be left alone can reflect controlling behavior and prevent independent assessment or reporting, heightening risk for harm. When the elder’s and caregiver’s stories don’t align, it raises concern about truthfulness and safety, and may reveal fear or coercion. Because each of these signs can point to abuse or neglect, they collectively justify further evaluation, safety planning, and reporting according to policy and law. If abuse is suspected, seek to interview the elder alone when appropriate, document exact observations and statements, involve social work or protective services, and ensure the elder’s immediate safety.

Recognizing red flags of elder abuse: unexplained injuries, a caregiver who refuses to leave the older adult alone, and conflicting stories between the elder and caregiver all signal possible abuse or neglect. Unexplained injuries may indicate physical harm or medical neglect, especially when the injuries don’t fit the given story or appear in multiple stages of healing. A caregiver who won’t permit the elder to be left alone can reflect controlling behavior and prevent independent assessment or reporting, heightening risk for harm. When the elder’s and caregiver’s stories don’t align, it raises concern about truthfulness and safety, and may reveal fear or coercion.

Because each of these signs can point to abuse or neglect, they collectively justify further evaluation, safety planning, and reporting according to policy and law. If abuse is suspected, seek to interview the elder alone when appropriate, document exact observations and statements, involve social work or protective services, and ensure the elder’s immediate safety.