The San Mateo County Health Department calls on all residents to report abuse of older adults in the area, whether financial, physical, emotional or sexual, as well as neglect or isolation.
He reported that only one case is reported out of the 24 cases that go unpunished.
"Help stop the cycle: it's everyone's business," notes the department through its website.
Signs and symptoms of elder abuse may present as someone who is not being cared for, has unexplained bruises, is depressed or anxious, or has unusual banking activity.
San Mateo County's senior population is expected to grow by more than 70 percent by 2030.
"As more people age in the county, we need to make sure everyone can do so safely," he says.
What are the signs of elder abuse?
"It's better to call and get it wrong than to get it right and do nothing," the county warns.
There are many signs that mean someone needs your help. These signs do not always mean that the person is being abused or neglected, but they can be indications that something is not right.
If in doubt, you can call the Adult and Senior Services Hotline at 1-800-675-8437 or 1-844-868-0938 and a trained staff member can analyze the signs while maintaining the confidentiality of your information.
Some signs to detect abuse against older adults are:
- He looks unkempt and has poor personal hygiene.
- Has unexplained bruises, sores, or burns
- Is depressed, confused, frightened, agitated, has atypical behavior, withdrawn
- Shows fear or anxiety around certain household members or caregivers.
- Having an adult child or caregiver who is overly dependent on the older adult for income or shelter
- Have changes in appetite or drastic weight gain or loss
- Unable to do basic things like preparing meals, shopping, or getting around.
- Has unusual bank account activity, gives away money, has debts or is unable to buy groceries
- Is isolated and has restricted visitors or phone calls
In such situations, if you suspect that a loved one is being abused or you are the one suffering from neglect, report the situation by calling 1-800-675-8437 or 1-844-868-0938, where you will be seen by a trained San Mateo County Health Department staff member, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
It should be noted that the identity of the reporting person is protected.
Confidentiality can be waived by the complainant or a court order, and elder abuse can also be reported anonymously.
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