As a guardian, it is your responsibility to protect the dependent from harm. In many respects, you function as the eyes and ears for the dependent. One of the most important things you can do is establish and maintain ongoing communication with the key people involved in the dependent’s care. Always ask for up-to-date information regarding the dependent’s personal and healthcare needs. Keep on top of how much supervision or guidance the dependent needs. Pay attention to signs of possible neglect or abuse the dependent may be being subject to in a residential care facility or home.

Indicators of physical neglect and/or abuse:

• Self-reports of abuse or rough treatment

• Broken bones, fractures, internal injuries, cuts, or open wounds

• Bruises in unusual areas

Indicators of sexual neglect and/or abuse:

• Self-reports of being sexually assaulted, abused or raped

• Extreme agitation when bathed, changed or examined

• Unexplained bruising or bleeding in genital area

Indicators of emotional neglect and/or abuse:

• Self-reports of being verbally mistreated

• Emotional agitation with no apparent cause

• Observation of anyone treating the dependent as a child, shaming or ridiculing, or treating them with contempt

Indicators of caregiver neglect:

• General fear of a specific caregiver

• Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated bedsores, or poor personal hygiene

• Threats, rough handling or scolding
  

If, as the guardian, you observe any signs of possible abuse or have reason to believe the dependent is not being appropriately cared for, do the following:

• Investigate what’s happening.

• Take appropriate steps to ensure the situation is corrected.

• File an abuse report with the appropriate authorities.

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