To report elder abuse in Kentucky:

• Kentucky Nursing Home Elder Abuse or Long Term Care – (800) 752-6200
  • In-State - (800) 842-0078
  • Out of State – (785) 296-3017
• Domestic/Community Elder Abuse – (800) 752-6200

In 2007, there were 9,660 reported cases of elder abuse in the state of Kentucky.  That is over 1 reported case per hour.  The number of unreported cases of abuse is unknown.

Signs of Elder Abuse

Kentucky’s Cabinet for Health and Family Services offers a number of ways for you to help identify the signs of elder abuse.  You are encouraged to look for common patterns of threats, harassment or demeaning remarks to an elderly person, whether it is by a family caregiver or a nursing home employee.  Also, be on the lookout for those who are not helpful to or are overly aggressive with an elder.

Physical Abuse- Common signs of physical abuse include bruises, bitemarks and broken bones.

Financial Abuse- Common signs include nexplainable bank account activity, inability to pay for bills, food or water, change of the elder’s home’s title in exchange for extended care.

Neglect - Common signs of neglect include malnutrition or dehydration, bedsores, frequent body odor and poor/unkept living environment.

Emotional Abuse – Common include depression, anxiety, fear, anxiousness and isolation from friends and family members.