{"id":17772,"date":"2026-06-07T14:24:04","date_gmt":"2026-06-07T14:24:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/?p=17772"},"modified":"2026-06-06T14:29:03","modified_gmt":"2026-06-06T14:29:03","slug":"preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/","title":{"rendered":"Preventing Elder Abuse in New Bern, NC Ensuring Safe, Respectful Care"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every older adult deserves to feel safe, valued, and cared for. Yet elder abuse remains one of the most underreported issues affecting seniors today \u2014 and it can happen anywhere, including private homes, assisted living facilities, and within families. In New Bern, as in communities across the country, awareness and early action are the most powerful tools families have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding what elder abuse looks like, who is most at risk, and what steps to take can make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What You Will Learn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What elder abuse looks like and the different forms it can take.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warning signs families in New Bern should take seriously.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Risk factors that increase vulnerability in older adults.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practical steps to prevent abuse and ensure safe, respectful care.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17734\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image.jpeg 1080w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-768x427.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#What_Elder_Abuse_Actually_Looks_Like\" title=\"What Elder Abuse Actually Looks Like\">What Elder Abuse Actually Looks Like<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#Warning_Signs_Worth_Taking_Seriously\" title=\"Warning Signs Worth Taking Seriously\">Warning Signs Worth Taking Seriously<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#Who_Is_Most_at_Risk\" title=\"Who Is Most at Risk\">Who Is Most at Risk<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#How_Families_Can_Take_Action\" title=\"How Families Can Take Action\">How Families Can Take Action<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#The_Role_of_Professional_In-Home_Care_in_New_Bern\" title=\"The Role of Professional In-Home Care in New Bern\">The Role of Professional In-Home Care in New Bern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#What_to_Do_If_You_Suspect_Abuse\" title=\"What to Do If You Suspect Abuse\">What to Do If You Suspect Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Elder_Abuse\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions About Elder Abuse\">Frequently Asked Questions About Elder Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/preventing-elder-abuse-in-new-bern-nc-ensuring-safe-respectful-care\/#Protect_Your_Loved_One_With_Safe_Compassionate_Care\" title=\"Protect Your Loved One With Safe, Compassionate Care\">Protect Your Loved One With Safe, Compassionate Care<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Elder_Abuse_Actually_Looks_Like\"><\/span><strong>What Elder Abuse Actually Looks Like<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elder abuse is not always dramatic or obvious. It can be a pattern of small behaviors that, over time, cause serious harm. It includes any intentional act \u2014 or failure to act \u2014 that causes harm or distress to an older adult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The most common forms include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Physical abuse<\/strong> \u2014 hitting, pushing, or the use of improper restraints<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotional abuse<\/strong> \u2014 verbal threats, humiliation, manipulation, or deliberate isolation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial exploitation<\/strong> \u2014 unauthorized use of funds, forged signatures, or coercion into financial decisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/senior-safety-matters-elder-abuse-prevention-tips-for-new-bern-families\/\"><strong>Neglect<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 failure to provide adequate food, hygiene, medication, or medical attention<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Abandonment<\/strong> \u2014 leaving a senior without necessary supervision or care<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes elder abuse particularly difficult to address is that it often involves someone the senior trusts \u2014 a family member, a paid caregiver, or a close friend. That dynamic can make victims reluctant to speak up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/391-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17748\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/391-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/391-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/391-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/391.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Warning_Signs_Worth_Taking_Seriously\"><\/span><strong>Warning Signs Worth Taking Seriously<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because many seniors do not report abuse \u2014 out of fear, shame, or cognitive limitations \u2014 families need to stay observant. Changes in behavior or physical condition are often the first indicators that something is wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Watch for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Unexplained bruises, injuries, or a pattern of frequent falls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sudden withdrawal from social activities or loved ones<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visible signs of poor hygiene or weight loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unusual financial transactions or missing valuables<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anxiety, fearfulness, or visible discomfort around specific individuals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shifts in mood, sleep patterns, or communication<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No single sign confirms abuse, but a combination of changes \u2014 especially ones that appear suddenly \u2014 warrants a closer look and an honest conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Is_Most_at_Risk\"><\/span><strong>Who Is Most at Risk<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elder abuse does not affect all seniors equally. Certain circumstances increase vulnerability, and recognizing them early allows families to take preventive steps before a situation escalates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Higher-risk factors include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Social isolation or limited contact with friends and family<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cognitive decline, including dementia or memory impairment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Physical dependence on others for daily care<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Financial vulnerability or lack of oversight over personal accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Caregiver burnout or high stress levels in the household<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors who rely heavily on a single caregiver \u2014 with little outside contact or oversight \u2014 face a particularly elevated risk. Building in regular check-ins and maintaining a broader support network can significantly reduce that exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/397.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17754\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/397.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/397-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/397-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/397-768x427.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Families_Can_Take_Action\"><\/span><strong>How Families Can Take Action<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prevention does not require dramatic intervention. Consistent, caring involvement is often enough to deter abuse and catch problems early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical steps families can take:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/resources\/copd-support-at-home-in-new-bern-nc-helping-seniors-stay-comfortable-and-independent\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stay actively involved<\/a> in your loved one&#8217;s daily routine and care decisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schedule regular visits, calls, or video check-ins \u2014 and vary the timing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review financial statements and important documents periodically<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourage your loved one to maintain friendships and community connections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build relationships with their caregivers and healthcare providers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Address caregiver stress proactively \u2014 burnout is a real and serious risk factor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transparency matters. When seniors feel comfortable speaking openly about their experiences, and when families maintain consistent involvement, the conditions that allow abuse to go undetected are far less likely to take hold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Role_of_Professional_In-Home_Care_in_New_Bern\"><\/span><strong>The Role of Professional In-Home Care in New Bern<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional in-home care adds an important layer of protection for seniors. Beyond helping with daily tasks, trained caregivers serve as consistent, observant presences in a senior&#8217;s life \u2014 people who can notice changes and communicate concerns to family members promptly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of New Bern, caregivers are thoroughly screened, professionally trained, and selected for both their competence and their character. Every caregiver is held to a high standard of accountability, ensuring that seniors receive support that is not only practical but genuinely respectful of their dignity and independence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a trusted professional involved in your loved one&#8217;s care also reduces the burden on family caregivers, which, in turn, lowers one of the key risk factors for abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17735\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/image-1.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Do_If_You_Suspect_Abuse\"><\/span><strong>What to Do If You Suspect Abuse<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you believe a loved one is being abused, act quickly \u2014 but thoughtfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by finding a private, safe moment to speak with the senior directly. Listen without pressure and avoid placing blame. Document what you observe: dates, descriptions, and any physical evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>From there, consider reaching out to:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Local Adult Protective Services<\/strong> \u2014 they are equipped to investigate and intervene<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Healthcare providers<\/strong> \u2014 who can assess injuries and document findings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Law enforcement<\/strong> \u2014 if there is immediate danger or a crime has been committed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You do not need to have all the answers before taking action. Reporting a concern is not an accusation \u2014 it is a step toward protecting someone you care about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Elder_Abuse\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions About Elder Abuse<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What is the most common type of elder abuse?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A: <\/strong>Financial exploitation is among the most prevalent forms, though emotional abuse and neglect are also widely reported. In many cases, more than one type of abuse occurs simultaneously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How do I talk to a senior I think is being abused?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A: <\/strong>Choose a private, calm setting and approach the conversation with care rather than urgency. Ask open-ended questions and make it clear you are there to support them, not to judge. Avoid pressuring them to make immediate decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: Can elder abuse happen in professional care settings?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A: <\/strong>Yes. While most professional caregivers are dedicated and trustworthy, abuse can occur in any setting. Regular family visits, open communication with care staff, and choosing reputable providers are key safeguards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What if the senior denies the abuse?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A: <\/strong>Denial is common, especially when the abuser is a family member or someone the senior depends on. Continue to monitor the situation, document your concerns, and consult with Adult Protective Services or a healthcare provider for guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How can Always Best Care of New Bern help?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A: <\/strong>Always Best Care of New Bern provides professional, compassionate in-home care with caregivers who are carefully vetted and trained. Our team works closely with families to create a safe, supportive environment \u2014 and to serve as an additional set of eyes and ears when families cannot be present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/401-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17738\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/401-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/401-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/401-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/05\/401.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protect_Your_Loved_One_With_Safe_Compassionate_Care\"><\/span><strong>Protect Your Loved One With Safe, Compassionate Care<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of New Bern, we are committed to helping families protect seniors through compassionate, professional in-home care. Our carefully screened caregivers provide daily support, companionship, and attentive oversight\u2014helping ensure your loved one remains safe, respected, and comfortable at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/contact\/\"><strong>Always Best Care of New Bern<\/strong><\/a><strong> at (252) 669-0023 to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/Markdown-June-1_-Protecting-Seniors-in-New-Bern_-A-Guide-to-Preventing-Elder-Abuse.docx.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/158\/2026\/06\/Markdown-June-1_-Protecting-Seniors-in-New-Bern_-A-Guide-to-Preventing-Elder-Abuse.docx.pdf\">Link to the markdown version of this blog. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every older adult deserves to feel safe, valued, and cared for. Yet elder abuse remains one of the most underreported issues affecting seniors today \u2014 and it can happen anywhere, including private homes, assisted living facilities, and within families. In New Bern, as in communities across the country, awareness and early action are the most&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17690,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[170],"tags":[356,357,358,359,360,361,362,363,364,365,366,367,368,369],"class_list":["post-17772","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17772","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17772"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17772\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17773,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17772\/revisions\/17773"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17690"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17772"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17772"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/new-bern\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17772"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}