Physical abuse is any act of violence or rough handling that may or may not result in physical injury but causes physical discomfort or pain.
Physical abuse can be:
- Pushing, kicking, shoving, shaking
- Hitting, slapping, poking
- Pulling hair, biting, pinching, arm twisting
- Spitting at someone
- Confining or restraining a person inappropriately
Elder Abuse – Physical Abuse of Seniors
How Do I Recognize Physical Abuse?
Indicators of physical abuse include:
- Unexplained injuries such as broken bones, bruises, bumps, cuts, grip marks
- Discrepancies between injury and explanation from the senior
- Unusual patterns of injuries
- Seen by different doctors or hospitals
- Bruising and abrasions
Signs of physical abuse:
- Signs of under/over medication
- Open wounds, cuts, punctures, untreated injuries
- Sprains, dislocations, internal injuries
- Broken eyeglasses
- Signs of being restrained