Abandonment is the desertion or willful forsaking of an
elder by any person having the care and custody of that elder under
circumstances in which a reasonable person would continue to provide
care and custody.
There is often great reluctance and/or fear from the elder to report abuse. Threats
of placement in a nursing home or shame for a possible family member
being involved can prevent an elder from seeking help. This is why
sensitivity to these issues must be employed when someone wants to
help in suspected abuse cases. In all cases the elder has the right
to determine his/her affairs to the best of his/ her ability.
Any person coming across a situation of suspected abuse is strongly encouraged
to report his/her findings. Symptoms and conditions of the abuse should
be reported clearly, specifically and objectively. When legal action
against these cases is intended, the reporter should include witnesses
(contact info and statements), photographs (of wounds or injuries,
living conditions, or a room or a bed; police department or an emergency
room may photograph emergency situations), and records (from public
help agencies or elders' patterns and history).
