Here in Georgia, Rockdale County’s PEARL Program is a commitment to protect seniors and disabled adults from abuse. Elder abuse is a harrowing reality that plagues our society. It compromises the safety and well-being of some of our most vulnerable citizens—our seniors.
The term “elder abuse” encompasses five disturbing subtypes of mistreatment, each one causing untold suffering. Together with federal, state, and local partners, the PEARL Program (Protecting our Elderly and At-Risk with Resources for better Living) is unwavering in its commitment to combat these forms of abuse, shielding the elderly and at-risk individuals in the county.
5 Types of Elder Abuse
1. Physical Abuse: This includes visible signs of harm, such as bruises, black eyes, welts, lacerations, or rope marks, as well as more serious injuries like bone fractures, broken bones, or skull fractures. Open wounds, cuts, punctures, and untreated injuries in various stages of healing are also indicators of physical abuse.
2. Financial Fraud, Scams, and Exploitation: Elder financial abuse takes various forms, including scams, fraud, or exploitation. Seniors are often targeted for their financial assets, making them vulnerable to unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit their savings or property.
3. Caregiver Neglect and Abandonment: Neglect and abandonment can manifest as a lack of proper care, hygiene, or medical attention. Signs may include malnutrition, untreated health conditions, or the caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see the elder alone.
4. Psychological and Emotional Abuse: Psychological abuse is less visible but equally damaging. Elders experiencing psychological abuse may exhibit sudden changes in behavior, anxiety, or withdrawal due to verbal or emotional mistreatment.
5. Sexual Abuse: This form of abuse encompasses any non-consensual sexual activity or exploitation involving an elderly or at-risk individual.
The PEARL Program uses a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to ensure that seniors and at-risk adults are able to live free from harm and abuse.
If you know of a case of abuse of an elderly or at-risk adult, report the abuse at this link: Report Elder Abuse | Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services.
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