Why Documentation Is Critical
Elder abuse is massively underreported. Victims often can't advocate for themselves. Adult Protective Services, law enforcement, and courts need documented evidence to intervene. Your photos, videos, and records may be the only voice your loved one has.
Signs to Document
✓Physical signs: unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, weight loss, poor hygiene
✓Living conditions: unclean environment, lack of food, medication not being administered, unsafe temperatures
✓Emotional signs: withdrawal, fear around certain caregivers, unusual behavior changes
✓Financial exploitation: missing money, unauthorized transactions, changed documents
✓Caregiver behavior: verbal abuse, rough handling, isolation from family
✓Medical neglect: untreated conditions, missed appointments, bedsores
How to Document Safely
✓Visit regularly and at different times: document conditions each visit
✓Photograph living conditions, injuries, and overall appearance with timestamped evidence
✓Record conversations if legally permitted in your state
✓Keep a written log of every visit: date, time, what you observed
✓Save all financial records showing irregularities
✓Note names of all caregivers present
Physical
Environmental
Financial
Emotional
Document across all categories
Where to Report
1
Document everything with dated photos, with the location recorded by your phone2
Contact Adult Protective Services in your state3
If immediate danger, call 9114
Consult an elder law attorney with your evidence5
File a police report if criminal abuse is suspected
