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                  Alteration in psychological state e.g. withdrawn, agitated, anxious, tearful.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.