Family abuse of senior citizens is a pattern of behavior in which your spouse, partner, adult child (or grandchild), caregiver or other member of the household treats you in a way that causes you physical, emotional, sexual or financial harm. THIS IS AGAINST THE LAW!

Some Of The Ways Family Members Can Hurt You:

Here are some ways to avoid being a victim of abuse:

1. Plan ahead for possible future physical disabilities. (a) Get legal help to prepare a "Durable Power of Attorney" naming the person you want to make your business decisions when you are not able to. (b) Write an "Advance Health Care Directive" describing your important health care desires and naming the person to act on those desires if you are unable to. (c) Write a will. Leave a copy with a trusted friend or associate.
2. Maintain friendships with people outside your house. Invite outsiders in to visit you and go out to visit others. Stay in touch with friends, neighbors and clergy by telephone. Ask someone to check on you regularly and offer to do the same in return. Checking on each other should include both phone calls and visits.
3. Stay involved in the faith community of your choice. If you can't get to services, ask the clergy to visit you. Stay active in other community groups and senior center activities.
4. Do not allow anyone to isolate you by taking over things like answering your phone, opening your mail or keeping friends from visiting.
5. Have your Social Security and pension checks deposited directly into a bank account that is in your name only. Do not give others access to your bank accounts.
6. Only give up control of your property and your assets when you know you can no longer manage them. Consider using a banker or trusted friend to manage your money instead of using a family member. Do not sign your house over to anyone else-leave it to them in your will instead.

If you or someone you know is a victim of Family Abuse of Seniors, call Families First, Inc. at 910-641-0444 or 910-862-2534.