Mickey Rooney started out as a member of his parent’s vaudeville act when he was only 17 months old.  He made his first film appearance at the age of 6 and was a star by the time he turned 17.  He had an incredible career spanning across 9 decades and seemed to have it all.  The acting world and fans were shocked when Mickey came forward to tell his story of abuse.

In February 2011, Mickey obtained a temporary restraining order against his stepson (Christopher) and his wife (Christina).  Mickey alleged that they committed verbal, emotional and financial abuse and denied him such basic necessities as food and medicine, leading to bouts of depression. Mickey felt he was made a prisoner in his own home by the use of threats, intimidation and harassment.

In September 2011 he, along with his conservator, filed an elder abuse claim against Christopher and Christina, alleging that they blocked access to his mail, obtained exclusive control over Mickey’s personal and business accounts, used those monies for their own use, and then transferred Mickey’s income to their own personal accounts.

Elder abuse cases have increased over the last decade.  It is unknown how many cases actually exist due to the shame that the abused feel.  Mickey’s abuse shows that anyone can fall victim to elder abuse.  Mickey testified in front of Congress to tell his story and to urge Congress to pass stricter elder abuse laws.  What are the symptoms of elder abuse?

• Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, and bleeding
• Sprained or broken bones
• Injuries that happen over and over
• The person doesn’t want to see a doctor about his wounds
• Act withdrawn or frightened
• Have changes in his behavior that you can’t explain
• Rock back and forth, suck, or mumble to himself
• Be depressed, confused, or lose interest in things he enjoyed
• Have trouble sleeping
• Withdrawals from bank accounts that your loved one can’t explain
• A new “friend” who may be taking financial advantage of him
• Legal documents that have been changed or disappeared
• Missing financial statements
• Unpaid bills, utilities that are shut off, or threats of eviction
• Signatures that seem to be forged