Under Maryland law any person who has reason to believe
that a vulnerable adult is in danger is encouraged to report that fact
to the local department of social services. First, contact
the Adult Protective Services office at your local Department of Social
Services, or can call the Maryland Department of Human Resources at 1-800-917-7383.
What are some signs of abuse? The following
may be clues that abuse, neglect or exploitation is occuring. Any
one, or many of the things on this list can occur for many reasons other
than abuse or neglect.
Physical abuse
multiple injuries
injuries that normally would not occur together
bruises, welts or abrasions
the use of physical restraints, such as tying
burns that could come from cigarettes or immersion
to water that is too hot
a caregiver's refusal to allow visitors to see the
person alone
Lab findings indicating over-medication
Physical Neglect
dehydration
malnourishment without a cause related to illness
failure to provide physical aids such as glasses,
hearing aids, or false teeth
bed sores
lack of compliance with medical care nstructions
Psychological Abuse
statements about a caretaker that indicate fear
threats or insults by caretaker
caretaker talks of person as a burden
person is withdrawn; gives short answers to questions,
averts gaze
person is not given opportunity to talk to others
alone
caregiver leaves person alone for long periods of
time
