Protecting Our Loved Ones: Understanding and Preventing Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is a serious and often hidden issue affecting older adults across the country. It can happen to anyone regardless of income, education, or background and is most often committed by someone the victim knows and trusts.
At TTCU, we are committed to helping our members stay informed, protected, and supported. Understanding what elder abuse is and how to recognize the warning signs can make a critical difference.
What Is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse is any intentional or negligent act that causes harm or creates a risk of harm to an older adult, typically age 60 or older. Abuse can occur at home, in assisted living or long-term care facilities, or within the community.
Elder abuse takes many forms, including:
Financial Exploitation
The unauthorized or improper use of an older adult's money, assets, or property. This may include:
- Unauthorized withdrawals or transfers
- Pressure to sign documents
- Misuse of debit or credit cards
- Scams targeting seniors
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Actions that cause fear, humiliation, or distress, such as:
- Threats or intimidation
- Isolation from friends or family
- Verbal harassment or manipulation
Physical Abuse
Use of force that results in injury, pain, or impairment.
Neglect
Failure to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, or hygiene whether intentional or due to caregiver inaction.
Why Elder Abuse Often Goes Unreported
Many cases of elder abuse are never reported due to:
- Fear of retaliation
- Dependence on the abuser for care or support
- Shame or embarrassment
- Cognitive decline or communication barriers
This is why awareness and involvement from family members, caregivers, and trusted professionals is so important.
Warning Signs of Elder Abuse
While signs can vary, some common red flags include:
Financial Warning Signs
- Sudden changes in spending or banking habits
- Missing money or unexplained transactions
- New "friends" involved in financial decisions
- Pressure to send money, gifts, or payments
Behavioral or Emotional Changes
- Withdrawal from normal activities
- Anxiety, confusion, or fearfulness
- Sudden changes in mood or personality
Physical or Living Condition Concerns
- Unexplained injuries
- Poor hygiene or unsafe living conditions
- Lack of basic necessities
Not all signs indicate abuse, but patterns or sudden changes should be taken seriously.
How to Help Prevent Elder Abuse
Protecting older adults starts with awareness and communication:
- Stay involved and check in regularly
- Encourage open conversations about finances and well-being
- Help safeguard financial information and accounts
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails especially those requesting money or personal information
- Trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right, it's worth questioning
What to Do If You Suspect Elder Abuse
If you believe an older adult is being abused or exploited:
- Speak up and seek help
- Contact local protective services or law enforcement if someone is in immediate danger
- Encourage the individual to speak with a trusted family member, attorney, healthcare provider, or financial institution
If financial exploitation may be involved, contact TTCU immediately using our official website or a trusted phone number so we can help review and protect the account.
Reports can also be made to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services at Report Abuse for suspected elder abuse.
We're Here to Help
Elder abuse can be difficult to recognize and even harder to talk about but it is preventable. By staying informed and looking out for one another, we can help protect our loved ones and our community.
If you have concerns or questions about account activity or potential financial exploitation, please reach out to TTCU. Your safety, dignity, and financial well-being matter to us.