1. Define the following types of abuse:

Physical abuse:

Intentional or unwanted contacted with another person who inflicts feeling of pain or injury.

Sexual abuse:

Behavior of sexual nature which is unwanted or without consent or by the use of threats.

Emotional/psychological abuse:

Non physical behaviors that can affect the cognitive, emotional, psychological and social development.

Financial abuse:

The misuse of a person’s money, property or assets buy forcibly controlling their finances.

Institutional abuse:

Where routines and regimes in the care setting deny people their rights, choices and opportunities. Mistreatment brought about by poor or inadequate support and care.

Self neglect:

The failure to care of oneself which can cause serious physical, mental or emotional harm.

Neglect by others:

Neglect is passive where a person is responsible to provide care for someone unable to care for themselves and fails to do so.

2. Identify the signs and/or symptoms associated with each type of abuse?

Physical abuse; series of unexplained falls or major injuries, Injuries/bruises at different stages of healing. Bruising in unusual sites, e.g. inner arms, thighs, abrasions, teeth indentations, injuries to head or face, client very passive, unexplained weight loss, fear or depression

Sexual abuse change in behavior, overt sexual behavior or language, difficulty in walking, sitting. Injury the genital and or anal area. Soreness around the genital area, torn, stain or bloody underwear.

Emotional/physiological abuse withdrawal, depression, cowering or fearfulness, change in sleep patterns, agitation, confusion, change in behavior, change in appetite/weight. Deprivation of liberty could be false imprisonment; aggressing shouting causing fear in a public place may be an offence of public order act 1986, or harassment under the protection from harassment act 1997.

Financial abuse unpaid bills, basic needs not being met, lack of cash on day to day basis, unexplained withdrawals from the bank, or unusual activity in the bank account. Reluctance on the part of the person with responsibility of the funds to provide basic clothes, food. Etc.

Neglect by absent of food, heat, hygiene, clothing, comfort, Preventing to have access to services. Isolation, absence of described medication, confusion.

3. Describe factors that may contribute to an individual being more vulnerable to abuse?
By learning the signs and symptoms of elder abuse and how to act on behalf of an elderly person who is being abused, I’ll not only be helping someone else but strengthening my own defenses against elder abuse in the future. Factors may include if the individual has a mental disability such as dementia or not having mental capacity. If the individual is secluded or isolated or are vulnerable. There could also be factors for the abuser which could include the abuser having lack of training, also abusing their power. Sometimes personal issues have a part to play which could include the carer abuser being stressed or having a history of abuse and continuing the cycle.

Know how to respond to suspected or alleged abuse

1. Explain the actions to take if there are suspicions that an individual is being abused.
The actions to take constitute the learners responsibilities in responding to allegations or suspicions of abuse. Always report to the appropriate person, record the facts on appropriate paper work, listen do not judge, stay calm and collected, do not tamper with evidence.

2. Explain the actions to take if an individual alleges that they are being abused.
A company have policies and procedures already in place to follow most would state to report to the appropriate person; record the facts on appropriate paperwork; listen and do not judge. Always establish what it is that has occurred and report any suspicions to the appropriate manager. Reassure the individual at all times and take every allegation seriously. Always date the paperwork and have it signed by any witnesses “if any. Take photographs of evidence if possible. Speak clearly and precise and avoid any leading questions.

3. Identify ways to ensure that evidence of abuse is preserved.
Always record the facts immediately report evidence immediately to line manager do not tamper with any evidence. Try to ensure that no one else enters the premises or alleged scene of crime until the police arrive. If you can, try and ensure that the alleged perpetrator does not have any contact with the victim. Record any physical signs or injuries using a body map or hand drawing. Write a description of any physical signs or injuries including size, shape, colour etc. Always remember to sign and date your notes and any other records you have made.