Unit 4- Elder abuse

Question 1

Who is eligible for APS?

Answer 1

People reported to be abused, neglected or exploited
1. age 65 and over
2. Adults 18-64 who have disabilities

Question 2

What are physical signs of elder abuse?

Answer 2

1. Dehydration or unusual weight loss
2. Missing daily living aids
3. Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts or sores
4. Unsanitary living conditions and poor hygiene
5. Unattended medical needs

Question 3

Who is the typical alleged perpetrator in elderly abuse?

Answer 3

1. Paid care taker
2. Unpaid care taker
3. family member
4. Ongoing relationship with the alleged victim

Question 4

Typically an alleged perpetrator has an ongoing relationship with the victim what does this mean?

Answer 4

A personal relationship that includes:
1. Frequent and regular interactions
2. A reasonable assumption that the interaction will continue
3.. An establishment of trust, beyond a commercial or contractual agreement

Question 5

What is sexual abuse of an elder?

Answer 5

Any nonconsensual sexual activity, which may include but not limited to any activity that constitutes an offense under Texas Penal Code

There is no consent when:
1. An alleged victim is incapable of consent
2. Consent is induced by force or threat
3. Alleged victim is unconscious or unable to resist
4. AP has impaired the victim or there is fear

Question 6

What is emotional/verbal abuse of an elder?

Answer 6

1. Caretaker, family member, or individual w/an ongoing relationship
2. Any act of use of verbal or other communication to threaten violence that makes a reasonable person fearful of imminent physical injury

Question 7

What is the definition of neglect

Answer 7

The failure to provide the protection, food, shelter, or care necessary to avoid emotional harm or physical harm

Question 8

What are examples of neglect?

Answer 8

Refusal or failure to provide
1. Water
2. Food
3. Clothing
4. Shelter
5. Personal hygiene
6. Medication
7. Medical care
8. Comfort
9. Personal safety
10. Other essential or basic needs

Question 9

What is the definition of exploitation?

Answer 9

Attempting to use, the resources of the alleged victim including the SS number or other identifying information for monetary or personal benefit, profit or gain, without the informed consent of the alleged victim.

There is no informed consent when
1. Not voluntary
2. Deception/coercion
3. Unable to make decisions

Question 10

What are indicators of exploitation?

Answer 10

1. Signing checks made out by someone else
2. Discrepancy between resources and living conditions
3. Frequent check written to “cash” or to caregiver
4. Victim is unaware of his income or expenditures

Question 11

Who is required to report abuse/neglect/exploitation?

Answer 11

Texas State Law mandates that any person who has cause to believe that a vulnerable adult is in a state of abuse, neglect or exploitation shall immediately report the information to APS