There is a painful subject that no one talks about….Elder Abuse. One of the first signs is when their spouse or caretaker isolates the person, keeping his or her friends and loved ones away, so they don’t see the bruises, the haunted look, or the desperation in their eyes. Of course there are the obvious signs, such as neglect of food and proper healthcare, but isolation is the primary factor that truly kills people eventually.

If a person cannot communicate with the outside world, they will wither up like a plant without water. They will be lost in their total loneliness. And they will die because they cannot tell their favorite story for the millionth time to whoever will listen to it.

We have a loved one that is being abused, but no one believes us. It can’t possibly be true. But it is. It breaks our hearts, but there is nothing we can do.

If you know someone that you suspect is hurting a person they care for, stand up for the defenseless victim. They can’t say anything and are often afraid to speak up themselves. And abuse can come from anyone at any age.

Remember that a sweet old granny who seems so helpless, might be hiding her abuse of her poor hubby or anyone one else she watches over and supposedly loves.

There are 15 cases of Elder Abuse reported weekly, in the small northern Ohio town of Lima, population of 35,000. How many are in your town?

Step up and help your loved one or a neighbor or even a perfect stranger. It might just save a life!

Please share a line or two about anyone you think you have seen abuse their loved one. I’ll be happy to share ideas about how to help.