Appendix 7: Signs of possible abuse in adults
Signs of possible abuse in adults
Physical
● A history of unexplained falls, fractures, bruises, burns, minor injuries.
● Signs of under or over-use of medication and/or medical problems unattended.
Psychological
● Alteration in psychological state e.g. withdrawn, agitated, anxious, tearful.
● Intimidated or subdued in the presence of the carer.
● Fearful, flinching or frightened of making choices or expressing wishes.
● Unexplained paranoia Sexual.
● Pregnancy in a woman who is unable to consent to sexual intercourse.
● Unexplained change in behaviour or sexually implicit/explicit behaviour.
● Torn, stained or bloody underwear and/or unusual difficulty in walking or sitting.
● Infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
● Full or partial disclosure or hints of sexual abuse.
● Self-harming Neglect or Omission.
● Malnutrition, weight loss and /or persistent hunger.
● Poor physical condition, poor hygiene, varicose ulcers, pressure sores.
● Being left in wet clothing or bedding and/or clothing in a poor condition.
● Failure to access appropriate health, educational services or social care.
● No callers or visitors Financial or Material.
● Disparity between assets and living conditions.
● Unexplained withdrawals from accounts or disappearance of financial documents.
● Sudden inability to pay bills.
● Carers or professionals fail to account for expenses incurred on a person’s behalf.
● Recent changes of deeds or title to property.
Discriminatory
● Inappropriate remarks, comments or lack of respect.
● Poor quality or avoidance of care Institutional.
● Lack of flexibility or choice over meals, bedtimes, visitors, phone calls, etc.
● Inadequate medical care and misuse of medication.
● Inappropriate use of restraint.
● Sensory deprivation e.g. denial of use of spectacles or hearing aids.
● Missing documents and/or absence of individual care plans.
● Public discussion of private matter.
● Lack of opportunity for social, educational or recreational activity.