Ace the PSW Foundations Exam 2026 – Empower Your Journey in Care!

Unexplained injuries and withdrawal are significant signs of elder abuse that a Personal Support Worker (PSW) should be vigilant about. When an elderly individual presents with injuries that cannot be easily explained or that the elderly person seems reluctant to talk about, it raises concern for potential physical abuse or neglect. Furthermore, social withdrawal can indicate emotional abuse or that the elderly person feels unsafe or unsupported in their environment.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for PSWs, as they might be the first point of contact for these vulnerable individuals. It’s important for a PSW to be aware of the behavior and demeanor of elderly clients as changes in their social interactions or physical well-being can serve as red flags that something may be wrong in their living situation.

In contrast, frequent visits from family members, increased independence, or improvements in health are generally positive indicators and do not typically signify elder abuse. These indicators point towards support systems and autonomy, which are beneficial for the elderly person in their care and overall well-being.