What Is Elder Abuse ?
Abuse of any kind, especially against those unable to defend themselves, is unacceptable to most of us. Those who are unable to protect themselves are usually older people. Hence, Elder Abuse is the victimization of older adults.
Many of us are unaware of how pervasive it is. Although statistics estimate that one out of every ten elderly individuals is mistreated annually, the accurate figure is likely to be significantly higher because so much elder abuse goes unreported.
Types Of Elder Abuse
To broach, elder abuse is a complex matter, yet it is necessary to do so. The following are examples of Elder Abuse:
- Physical Abuse
- Mental Abuse
- Emotional Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Financial Abuse/Exploitation etc.
Elder Abuse encompasses a wide range of conditions. Elder Abuse can entail both deliberate and unintentional neglect. To better serve our communities, we must address these types of injustice.
The signs of elder abuse may not be visible right away. Abuse may happen to members of our own families and to our senior neighbors, friends, and acquaintances. That’s why we must keep track and put elder abuse on our radars.
Experts from the National Center on Elder Abuse argue that no matter how old we are, we must all be treated as full members of our communities. However, some elderly people may be more vulnerable to neglect or Abuse since they are not visible to other community members.
Elder Abuse & Their Signs
Elder abuse is more likely when an older adult is reliant on others owing to mobility issues, dementia, or other impairments. However, it occurs in seniors of all socioeconomic and health statuses. It might happen in the person’s home, a care facility, or a family member’s home.
The following are signs of Physical Abuse:
- Bruises on the face or any part of the body.
- Burns, scars, sores, or other wounds.
Following are examples of Emotional/Psychological Abuse:
- Confused behavior, Intimidation, or yelling
- Threatening others
- Isolating an older person from friends or loved ones.
- Preventing them from participating in activities that they enjoy for no reason.
The following are signs of financial exploitation or Abuse:
- Unusual withdrawals or expenditures from an older adult’s bank account
- Purchases of uncommon goods regularly
- Threatened or confused elderly looking for the money asked in the name of supporting family, friends, relatives etc.
Elder Abuse Prevention
Everyone must play a role in ensuring the safety of the elderly. Advocates want physicians, bank personnel, and law enforcement to be more aware of the situation. The general population is also encouraged to be mindful of the warning signs:
- Bruises, fractured bones, burns, wounds, or scars if seen should be reported immediately.
- Bedsores, poor hygiene, filthy clothing, unexpected weight loss, poor health should be recorded.
- Withdrawal from connections and activities that could be harmful.
- An elder’s financial condition changes unexpectedly and people keep an eye on them.
- Depression and trauma symptoms which can be deliberately used against the elders.
- Caregivers’ belittling, threats, or other forms of power abuse, be it at home or at a social place.
- Inadequate medical treatment.
Seniors who are mistreated may be uncomfortable or hesitant to speak up. They may not want to offend a family member. May be They can be afraid of retaliation from the abuser. They may also assume that the abuser is the only person who can help them.
If you believe an older person has been abused, convince them it is not their fault. Please explain your concern and offer to assist them in obtaining assistance. Inform the appropriate adult protective services agency of your problems.
Conclusion
Every senior citizen deserves to feel comfortable in their home and have their caretakers respect them. My Noble Care caregivers are vetted, supervised, and trained to satisfy clients’ and families’ physical, emotional, and safety requirements. Request a care consultation at your nearest My Noble Care location now.
Published by HFA on February 01, 2024