Mandated Reporting of Elder Abuse: What to Know

Elder abuse affects millions of older adults every year. As our population continues to age, the risk of abuse, neglect and exploitation also rises. To combat this, many states have established mandated reporting laws requiring certain professionals to report suspected or confirmed cases of elder abuse.

If you work with older adults or suspect abuse, understanding your role as a mandated reporter is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable seniors.

Who is Mandated to Report Elder Abuse?

Mandated reporters are individuals who, due to their profession or role, are legally required to report suspected cases of elder abuse. The specific list of mandated reporters varies by state, but common professions include:

• Healthcare Professionals: Physicians, nurses and mental health counselors
• Social Workers: Those working in case management, community services or counseling roles
• Caregivers: Caregivers in nursing homes, senior centers or in-home care settings
• Financial Professionals: Bank employees, financial planners and others who may notice unusual financial activity
• First Responders: Police officers, firefighters and paramedics
• Clergy Members: In certain states, religious leaders who are in positions of trust

If you are uncertain whether your profession or role requires you to report, it’s important to consult your state’s specific elder abuse laws.

Recognizing Elder Abuse

Elder abuse can take many forms, and recognizing it requires an understanding of its warning signs. The types of abuse include physical, emotional, financial, sexual abuse, neglect and abandonment. Here are some common indicators to look out for:

• Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries like bruises, burns or fractures; signs of restraint; or an older adult expressing fear of a specific caregiver.
• Emotional Abuse: Withdrawal, depression, anxiety or sudden changes in behavior or personality.
• Financial Exploitation: Unusual banking activity, unauthorized withdrawals, missing funds or unpaid bills.
• Neglect: Poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, untreated medical conditions or unsafe living conditions.
• Sexual Abuse: Bruising around private areas, unexplained sexually transmitted infections or inappropriate behavior from caregivers.
• Abandonment: Evidence that the older adult has been left alone without necessary care or resources.

The signs of abuse can sometimes be subtle, and many older adults experiencing abuse are afraid to share their situation, or in cases of cognitive decline, they may not be capable of explaining what’s happening to them. Even if the older in question can’t confirm that abuse is happening, if you have strong concerns that something is happening, it’s better to move forward with reporting so qualified professionals can step in and investigate further.

How to Report Elder Abuse

When you suspect elder abuse, taking immediate action can make all the difference. Here’s what to do:

1. Gather Information: Before reporting, try to collect as much relevant information as possible, including the older adult’s name, age, address and details of the suspected abuse, such as what you observed and when it occurred. However, a lack of complete information should not prevent you from making a report.
2. Contact the Appropriate Agency: In most states, suspected elder abuse should be reported to Adult Protective Services (APS). You can find your local APS contact through the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) or by contacting your state’s Department of Health or Aging.
3. Call 911 if Immediate Danger is Present: If the older adult is in immediate physical danger, call emergency services to ensure their safety.
4. Follow Reporting Guidelines: Each state has specific laws regarding how and when to report elder abuse. Some may require you to submit a written report after calling APS, while others may only require verbal communication. Be sure to follow the steps required in your state.
5. Stay Confidential: When you make a report, your identity is usually kept confidential to protect both you and the elder involved. Reporting in good faith also protects you from legal liability, even if your suspicions turn out to be unfounded.

The Role of Training in Mandated Reporting

Proper training is essential to ensure that mandated reporters are prepared to recognize and act on signs of elder abuse. Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging offers Online Mandated Reporter Training, which provides practical guidance on identifying abuse, understanding state-specific reporting laws, and navigating the reporting process effectively. This training equips professionals with the tools they need to protect vulnerable older adults while fulfilling their legal obligations.

Taking Action to Protect Older Adults

Elder abuse is a silent crisis that often goes unreported due to fear, shame or lack of awareness. Mandated reporters play a vital role in breaking this silence and ensuring that older adults receive the protection and care they deserve. By recognizing the signs of abuse, knowing how to report it, and utilizing resources, caregivers and professionals can make a significant difference in the lives of older adults.

To learn more about mandated reporting or to take advantage of Benjamin Rose’s Online Mandated Reporter Training, visit our website. Together, we can work to prevent elder abuse and build a safer, more supportive community for all older adults.