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Every primary caregiver of a loved one with dementia can agree that safeguarding their well-being is not only essential, it’s the number one priority. Unfortunately, individuals with dementia are often at increased risk of neglect, abuse, and exploitation and recognizing when to involve an elder protection program is critical to ensuring your loved one’s safety while also ensuring that you have access to invaluable resources and support through the journey.

Here’s what you need to know about reaching out to an elder protection program in the Lakeway, Texas area.

Indicators of Risk: When to Act

Understanding the warning signs that indicate your loved one may need the assistance of an elder protection program is important because it’s not always easy or clear. While dementia can cause behaviors that may seem concerning, there are ways to distinguish these from true signs of neglect or abuse:

Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or other injuries that cannot be attributed to falls or common dementia-related accidents.

Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal, fearfulness, anxiety, or sudden changes in mood or personality that seem unrelated to dementia progression.

Environmental Concerns: Unsanitary living conditions, lack of basic necessities like food or medication, or unsafe surroundings.

Financial Irregularities: Unusual banking activity, missing funds, or unexplained changes to financial documents or accounts.

If you observe any of these indicators, act quickly to protect your loved one from further damage. An experienced team of senior care professionals in Lakeway, TX, can help.

How Elder Protection Programs Work

Elder protection programs are at their core designed to safeguard seniors from harm and promote their mental and physical wellness. These programs offer a variety of  compassionate services outlined below.

Investigation of Concerns: Programs assess reports of neglect, abuse, or exploitation to determine the best course of action.

Intervention: Elder law experts can involve law enforcement, social services, or legal professionals to address the situation.

Financial Oversight: Reporting financial exploitation can lead to interventions that protect assets and prevent further losses.

Advocacy: Programs advocate for seniors’ rights, ensuring they receive proper care and support when they need it, where they need it.

Care Transitions: Elder protection professionals may recommend changes in caregiving arrangements, including transitioning to professional memory care in Lakeway, TX. To learn more, check out this helpful infographic on exploring your senior living options.

Caregiver Resources: Many programs provide education and tools to help families navigate the complexities of dementia care.

To report a concern, families can contact their local Adult Protective Services (APS) or elder protection agency. After a report is made, professionals will evaluate the case and work to address the identified risks.

Proactive Steps to Take Before Issues Arise

While it’s natural to reach out after noticing concerning signs, proactive engagement with elder protection programs can prevent problems from escalating. Here are some ways to act early:

  • Attend caregiver workshops or training sessions to learn about best practices in dementia care.
  • Set up systems like financial monitoring, legal protections, and regular wellness checks to minimize risks.
  • Explore local support groups, respite care options, and community programs to alleviate caregiver stress and provide additional care for your loved one.

Reaching out to an elder protection program is the most important step in ensuring the safety and well-being of a loved one with dementia. A top local senior living community like Arbor Terrace Lakeway can help, by providing all the resources you need to find a trusted program near you as well as bridging communication channels between an elder protection team and your family.

Caregivers, it’s time to navigate this dementia care journey with confidence and peace of mind. There isn’t a moment to lose in getting your loved one the care they need to feel empowered and the time to act is now.

Ready to learn more about the resources our trusted community in the heart of Lakeway has to offer? Download The Caregiver’s Complete Guide to Alzhiemer’s and Dementia Care.

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