Elderly Investigations Flashcards
True/False
Physical indicators of sexual elder abuse should direct investigators to search for other corroborating evidence. Many of these indicators cannot be identified without physical examination. Indicators may include the following:
- Torn, stained or bloody underclothing
- Genitalia and/or anal infection, irritation, discharges or bleeding, itching, bruising or pain.
- painful urination
- difficulty walking or sitting due to anal or genital pain
- psychosomatic pain such as stomach or headaches
- physical evidence pornography or prostitution
- STDs
True
True/False
In situations where it is suspected that a crime has been committed against an older person, the elder abuse provider and law enforcement agency will discuss whether a joint intervention is appropriate.
True
True/False
Individually, none of these indicators constitutes evidence of wrongdoing on the part of a caregiver. However, when one or more indicators are present along with injuries, further investigation is warranted.
- concealment of victims injuries. For example the victim is brought to a different facility for treatment each time there is an injury.
- inconsistent explanation for victims injuries. Sometimes several family members provide different explanations of how injuries were sustained.
- history of making threats
- history of substance or alcohol abuse
- victim of abuse as a child
- dependent on victims income or assets
True
True/False
Bruises or welts. Older adults bruise more easily than younger people, and they are also at risk for a variety of injuries that lead to bruising.
True
True/False
Indications of abuse are not limited to visible wounds or injuries. The behavior of victims can reflect traits often associated with elder abuse. Presence of these indicators is not conclusive and should serve only to direct the focus of further investigation.
- easily frightened, agitated, or trembling
- exhibiting denial
- hesitant to talk openly
- implausible explanations concerning injuries. Often when victims have injuries related to abuse, they are explained as the result of accidents. By carefully assessing the type of injury and the explanation, it is possible to discover inconsistencies. For example, a bruise which is explained as the result of an accidental fall may be on a part of the body which is unlikely to sustain an impact in a fall.
- confusion or disorientation
True
True/False
Indicators of physical abuse. Elderly persons may frequently exhibit signs of falls and accidents. These same signs may be indicators of physical abuse, especially when victims or suspects attempt to conceal their presence or offer inconsistent or irrational excuses for injuries. Investigators should consider the presence of any injury in their assessment of physical abuse cases.
True
