Home Helpers of Hillsboro helping raise awareness for elder abuse and neglect

Home Helpers of Hillsboro is reminding everyone that June 15 is World Elder Abuse Day. Home Helpers, which specializes in non-medical and personal in-home care and companionship, is raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect and exploitation and is offering tips which local Hillsboro residents can use to detect senior abuse.

Throughout the world, abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults remains a hidden problem that is largely under-recognized and under-reported. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, 1 to 2 million senior citizens have been mistreated by someone who they depended on for care. Research shows that public education campaigns such as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day are vital to inform people around the world about elder abuse. Active involvement of the media is central to the success of these campaigns.

“As a business that works closely with senior citizens on daily a basis, it is our mission to provide the best quality care and companionship for elders in the Hillsboro area and to educate the community on issues that may affect their loved ones,” said Janet Dean of Home Helpers of South Central Ohio. “It is crucial to increase public awareness and knowledge of elder abuse and to promote the education of professionals and community members in the identification, treatment and prevention of this issue.”

These warning signs from Home Helpers of Hillsboro could help determine if your loved one could is being mistreated:

• Bruises, welts, and scars on the body that appear symmetrical on both sides of the body;
• Suffering from broken bones, sprains or dislocations;
• Caregiver is isolating the elder, and the caregiver will not let anyone visit them;
• Threatening and/or controlling behavior from the caregiver;
• Loved one is showing signs of rocking or mumbling;
• Malnutrition along with weight loss;
• The senior has not been bathing or is wearing soiled clothes;
• Unusual financial activity your loved one could not have done.

By looking for these warning signs, it could help your family detect a potential problem with their caregiver.

Home Helpers offers free in-home consultations and works with clients individually to tailor flexible care plans to meet their specific needs and budgets. Services offered include companionship, grocery shopping, meal preparation, assistance bathing, dressing and feeding, medication reminders, local transportation and light housekeeping.

For more information on Home Helpers of Hillsboro, please contact 937-393-8600 or visit www.chillicothehomecare.com.