Prevention of Maltreatment
- For Yourself
- For Others
There is no guarantee you or someone you love will never experience maltreatment. You can lessen the likelihood of maltreatment, however.
Maintain social contacts and cultivate friendships;
Take care of your health through regular medical and dental checkups, and be honest with your medical advisers about any problems you experience;
Stay active, both physically and mentally;
Learn about the changes that are part of the normal aging process;
Be thoroughly familiar with your financial status, and have a plan in place for someone you trust to handle your finances should you become unable to do so, making sure your income and assets will be available to meet your needs;
If a relative, especially one with a troubled life, wants to live with you, think it through and make sure you and your assets will be safe before agreeing; and
If you need help, ask for it from someone you trust to help - a family member, doctor, lawyer, clergy, other helping professionals or a friend or neighbor
Remember that life’s circumstances can change in an instant, and be prepared to change with them.
Anyone can experience maltreatment; however, here are some ways to lessen the likelihood of maltreatment.
Be aware of vulnerable adults with whom you have contact - relatives, friends, neighbors, and church members.
Maintain frequent contact with friends, relatives, or neighbors to decrease isolation.
Encourage older relatives and friends to make plans for financial management and care should they become unable to take care of themselves.
Be careful about taking on too much when you try to help.
Learn to recognize the warning signs of possible adult maltreatment, including self neglect, and report suspicious situations to the police or Adult Protective Services as soon as you’re aware of them.
