Learn the common signs of potential elder abuse, as shared by My Elder CEO Jack Halpern.

New York, N.Y. — June 15, 2015 – Every year, more than two million cases of elder abuse occur. National franchisor My Elder works to prevent abuse by advocating for elders’ rights. In honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day June 15, My Elder’s founder, Jack Halpern, a leading elder abuse advocate and champion of elder care rights, is sharing common signs of potential elder abuse.

1. Understaffed Nursing Homes: More than 75 percent of all U.S. nursing homes are understaffed. This is the number one factor in preventable nursing home falls. Residents of understaffed facilities often receive less attention from qualified caregivers.

2. Weight Loss: Sudden weight loss can be a sign of being starved, underfed or malnourished. A good indicator is loose clothes that once fit properly.

3. Bruises, Bed Sores, Broken Bones: These are all indicators of serious neglect or physical abuse. It’s important to routinely visit with elders and examine them for these signs.

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4. Overmedicating: More than 35 percent of nursing home patients receive antipsychotic drugs. Although necessary for some patients, one in five is given the drug solely as a way to control them. Dizziness, depression, lack of interest or appearing “out of it” can be signs of overmedication.

5. Refusal to Speak: If an elder refuses to speak in front of a caregiver, it could indicate he/she fears them. This can be a sign that physical or emotional abuse is happening when no one else is present.

Halpern has personally helped thousands of elders gain the best care possible and has prevented more than 200 nursing home evictions from happening. He has more than 41 years of experience in elder care, including executive management at nursing homes. My Elder franchisees will guide families and their aging loved ones through the complex elder care system, fight for their rights and solve care-related crises. For more information on My Elder or to inquire about franchise opportunities, please visit www.MyElder.com/franchise/ 

About My Elder

Founded in 2008, My Elder is a first-of-its-kind overarching elder care franchise that solves immediate and long-term health crises. Headquartered in New York City, My Elder plans to open locations throughout the country through a newly launched franchising strategy. My Elder service areas include: Advocacy, long-term care planning, long distance caregiving, elder monitoring service, home care management, nursing homes and assisted living facility placement, hospital, nursing home and home crisis intervention services and nursing home eviction services. For more information about My Elder or to inquire about franchising opportunities, please visit www.MyElder.com.

My Elder provides elder advocacy services to families. Talk to us about long-term planning, finding the right home for your loved ones, preventing crisis and abuse, and ensuring they receive the best care possible.