Tips for reporting elder abuse

May is Older Americans Month, and Baltimore County is reminding residents that caring for our seniors and remembering to report abuse, neglect or exploitation is everyone's duty. Reporting suspected abuse ensures the safety and well-being of our older Americans.

Adult Protective Services serves adults who lack the physical or mental capacity to provide for their daily needs. The goals are to prevent or remedy the abuse, neglect, self-neglect or exploitation of adults who are unable to protect their own interests and are at risk of immediate harm to their own person or to others.

Signs of physical abuse to look for include cuts, bruises, welts, burns, unusual injuries, undernourished, dehydrated or untreated medical conditions. Signs of social abuse include isolation, violence, drug use or the inability to speak freely. Financial abuse signs include unusual bank account activity, unpaid bills, changes in spending habits and signatures on checks not matching.

If you notice any of these signs, call 410-853-3000, option #2. Persons who report suspected incidents of abuse and neglect are protected under the law.