It is not your role to verify that abuse is occurring, only to alert others of your suspicions. Reporters may remain anonymous and cannot be held liable in civil or criminal court when reports are made in good faith.
According to Connecticut Law, mandated reporters are generally anyone paid to care for older adults in any capacity such as: licensed or unlicensed professionals, physicians, surgeons, interns, nurses, patients’ advocates (excluding the Long Term Care Ombudsman staff and volunteers), medical examiners, dentists, optometrists, chiropractors, podiatrists, social workers, clergymen, police officers, pharmacists, psychologists, physical therapists, nursing home staff, emergency medical personnel, and any person paid for caring for an older adult by any institution, organization, agency or facility such as homemakers or companions. For the complete list click here.
They are required to report suspected elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation or abandonment. They must alert the appropriate parties (note: hyperlink “appropriate parties” back to the “make a report” section) of their suspicion within 72 hours after the suspicion or belief arouse. Failure to do so can result in fines up to $500 and misdemeanor charges.