Whether a caregiver hits, sexually abuses or takes advantage of you financially, there are various forms of abuse to look out for if you live in an assisted living facility. Moreover, it is imperative to keep in mind that some victims experience psychological abuse. If you have a loved one living in an assisted living facility, watch out for certain signs that they are experiencing psychological abuse.
Emotional abuse carries a heavy toll and leads to various hardships for victims. Abusers must answer for the pain and suffering they inflict.
Looking out for psychological abuse
The United States Department of Justice published an overview of signs to look out for if you suspect that your loved one is enduring psychological abuse. In some instances, victims or others report emotional or verbal abuse. Other indicators include atypical behavior, noticing that a caregiver is isolating or controlling, changes to eating or sleeping habits as well as becoming withdrawn and non-communicative. Some victims are visibly upset and emotional, and some become depressed or have problems related to anxiety.
Looking at examples of psychological abuse
Psychological abuse takes many different forms. Sometimes, abuse is very evident, such as those subjected to threats that make them fear for their safety. Other examples of abuse are less obvious but also hurtful, such as name-calling. Sometimes, abusers repeatedly harass victims until they do something against their will and in some instances, those abusing an older adult prevent them from seeing or talking to friends or loved ones. If you have endured psychological abuse or a loved one is facing these hardships, take action swiftly.
