Caregivers should take precautions to prevent abuse when they are not present, including educating the person being cared for about abuse, knowing the signs of abuse, and getting to know other caregivers. Caregivers should also encourage children to confide in trusted adults and not keep secrets. Sudden changes in behavior can be a sign of abuse, and caregivers should trust their instincts and look out for red flags.
Parents, guardians and other primary caregivers know that they cannot always be with the person they are caring for at all times, whether it is a child or an adult in need of care. At some point during the average weekly routine, responsibility for caring for the individual will temporarily shift to a teacher, health professional, or other trusted adult. Whether this period of separation results in a half-hour health check or a sleepover at a friend’s house, there are some precautionary steps caregivers can take to try to prevent abuse when they’re not around. These measures include educating the child or adult about what abuse is and what to do if it occurs, knowing the signs of abuse, and knowing other caregivers assigned to care for the child or adult.
When it comes to educating children about sexual abuse, there are various books, videos and games designed specifically to help parents and teachers empower children with awareness. In addition to teaching children about sexual abuse, caregivers should also encourage children to confide in a trusted adult if they suspect they are being abused. Another precautionary measure to prevent abuse involves encouraging children not to keep secrets from other adults and encouraging them to immediately tell another trusted adult if they are threatened or coerced into keeping a secret.
In addition to bruises and other visible signs, abuse can also manifest itself in the form of sudden changes in behavior. An abused person may suddenly become moody, withdrawn and despondent, or they may start acting out or become violent. An abused person may also start using drugs or alcohol, have poor grades in school, or show a loss of interest in activities that previously made him happy. If a caregiver spots any of these signs in a loved one, she has a better chance of being able to intervene and prevent the abuse from escalating.
Another important step that can be taken to help prevent abuse is for primary caregivers to get to know the other people who are entrusted with the care of their loved ones. Asking loved ones about their routines and who they spent time with throughout the day can give caregivers insight into other authority figures in their loved one’s life. Ultimately, it’s important for caregivers to trust their instincts, including any red flags that may arise from the behavior of those in authority when around those who are vulnerable to abuse.
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