Elder Death Scenes

If the death is suspicious, consider whether elder abuse caused and/or contributed to the death. Observe for signs of death by physical abuse or neglect.

Signs Of Death By Elder Abuse Are…

• Unclean or uninhabitable quarters
• Soiled sheets and mattress (check underside of mattress)
• Spoiled food in the refrigerator, or insufficient food
• Bruised eyes and/or eyelids
• Untrimmed and curled fingernails
• Injuries to the decedent’s body, including bed sores, bruising, fractures
• Emaciated, sunken body
• Expired medications or empty medication bottles

If You Suspect Elder Abuse At A Death Scene, Ask…

• Is the living space appropriate for the older adult, given their medical condition(s) and level of independent functioning?
• Could the decedent use a telephone? Is it within reach?
• Ask open-ended questions such as “What happened?”
• Does the story fit? Is it believable?
• When was the last doctor’s visit? Who was the doctor? (Verify with the medical office.)
• If the decedent was ill, did the caregiver seek medical attention? Show adequate concern?
• Is the caregiver knowledgeable about the decedent’s medical problems?

If You Suspect Elder Abuse…

• Use the First Responder Checklist to document and describe the decedent’s body and conditions of the home/environment.
• Take photographs of any physical injuries, as well as the living quarters. (See Photo Tips.)
• Take witness accounts and caregiver statements about the decedent’s health and well-being prior to death. (See Interviewing Older Adults.)
• Cross report to local ombudsman program, if the decedent is in a nursing home or long-term care program. (See Community Resource Referral.)
• Explore and document the possibility of all types of elder abuse (financial, sexual, physical, neglect).