How to Recognize Abuse?
Any Horizon NJ Health member has the right to receive care without facing abuse. Caregivers and professionals, including care providers, are required to report suspected abuse or neglect of any person, including:
- Children or adults who resides in a community setting; and
- Elderly adults living in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities
Types of abuse:
- Physical Abuse – physical pain or injury caused by slapping, bruising, or restraining by physical or chemical means
- Sexual Abuse – non-consensual sexual contact of any kind
- Neglect – failure to provide food, shelter, health care, or protection
- Exploitation – illegally taking, misuse, or concealment of funds, property, or assets for someone else's benefit
- Emotional Abuse –mental pain, anguish, or distress caused by verbal or nonverbal acts
- Abandonment – desertion of a vulnerable person by anyone who has responsibility for that person
- Self-neglect –failure of a senior to perform everyday self-care tasks that threatens his/her own health or safety
If you think your loved one is the subject of abuse or neglect, report it immediately. How to report abuse?
Elder Abuse
The federal Administration on Aging has provides a list of signs to look for in possible cases of elder abuse. While one sign does not necessarily mean there is abuse, there are some telltale signs that there could be a problem:
- Physical abuse – bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, and burns
- Emotional abuse – unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, a sudden change in alertness, and unusual depression
- Sexual abuse – bruises around the breasts or genital area
- Exploitation – sudden changes in financial situations
- Neglect – bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss
- Emotional abuse – behavior such as belittling, threats and other uses of power and control
Child Abuse
The New Jersey Department of Children and Families provides a list of signs to look for in possible cases of child abuse and neglect.
Physical Abuse
Physical Indicators | Behavioral Indicators |
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Unexplained bruises and welts:
Unexplained burns:
Unexplained fractures:
Unexplained laceration or abrasions:
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Physical Neglect
Physical Indicators | Behavioral Indicators |
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Sexual Abuse
Physical Indicators | Behavioral Indicators |
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Emotional Maltreatment
Physical Indicators | Behavioral Indicators |
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Be alert. The suffering that results from abuse and neglect is often silent. If you notice changes in personality or behavior, you should start asking what’s going on. Remember, it is not your role to verify that abuse is happening, only to alert others of your suspicions.