Vulnerable Adult Indicators

Vulnerable Adult
Any adult who lacks the physical or mental capacity to provide for the his/her daily needs.

Abuse
The sustaining of any physical injury by a vulnerable adult as a result of cruel or inhumane treatment or as a result of a malicious act by any person.

Indicators

• Abrasions on legs and arms
• Bruises or welts
• Burns
• Fractures
• History of similar injuries
• Injuries caused by cutting , poking, biting, being restrained
• Internal injuries (unexplained reported pain)
• Lacerations

• Sprains

   

Neglect
The willful deprivation of adequate food, clothing, medical treatment, or habilitative therapy, shelter or supervision from a vulnerable adult.
 

Indicators

• Absence of prescribed medication
• Dehydration
• Hunger
• Lack of clean or unsuitable clothing
• Left alone-unsupervised
• Malnutrition
• No food in home
• Poor hygiene
• Skin disorders or rashes
• Untreated bedsores
• Untreated injuries or medical problems

• Weight loss

   

Self Neglect
The inability of a vulnerable adult to provide for his/her physical or mental health and well-being, and the absence of which impairs or threatens the vulnerable adult’s well-being.

Indicators
They are the same as neglect but can include: 

• Absence of necessities in home (including food, water, or heat)
• Cannot remember when he or she ate
• Confusion
• Unsanitary or unsafe living conditions
• Wandering

Exploitation
Any action which involves the misuse of a vulnerable adult’s funds, property, or person.

Indicators

• Unusual volume or type of banking activity, or activity inconsistent with the victim’s normal behavior or ability
• Non-payment of bills leading to eviction notices or threats to discontinue utilities
• Changes to legal documents such as deeds or powers of attorney that the person did not understand at the time he or she signed them
• Missing assets or funds
• Suspicious signatures on checks or other documents
• Unexplained withdrawals from or transfers between accounts
• Sexually transmitted disease
• Unwanted or non-consensual touching, sexual advances/behaviors with a vulnerable adult