Elder abuse is a type of abuse that occurs against the elderly. It can take many forms, but it often involves one or more caregivers who have a position of trust or power over an older person. Elder abuse may involve physical harm, psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, fraud, and financial exploitation. The consequences of elder abuse can be devastating. Victims may suffer from depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and some may even become suicidal. The cost of caring for victims of elder abuse can be overwhelming for families and communities, and it often results in long-lasting negative impacts on victims’ quality of life.Elder abuse is preventable. Early identification of red flags and appropriate action can help protect older adults. Let’s take a closer look at the signs of elder abuse so you can help protect your loved ones from this harmful practice.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse against the elderly includes hitting, slapping, kicking, or any type of physical violence. While physical abuse against the elderly is much less common than against younger adults, it can still happen.Elder abuse victims may not report abuse because they are afraid that they will not be believed or that they will get in trouble. But reporting the abuse is the first step toward getting help.Physical abuse against the elderly is often motivated by a desire for power and control. The abuser may be someone the victim trusts such as a family member, caregiver, or home health aide.Abusers often use physical violence to control their victims. They may also use violence to put the victim in a position where they are unable to leave.Abusers often use excessive force, such as hitting an older adult multiple times.They may also use weapons, such as knives or guns, when the victim is unable to defend themselves.Abusers may also use chemicals or substances as weapons. They may mix chemicals with water or put chemicals in food to cause illness.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse against the elderly can include isolating a person from family and friends, making them feel worthless, criticizing them in a way that makes them feel bad about themselves, or threatening them with punishment if they don’t do what the abuser wants.It’s important to note that emotional abuse doesn’t always include yelling or name-calling. Some types of emotional abuse are less obvious, but just as damaging.
Neglect
This form of abuse involves a caregiver who fails to provide necessary care for an older person. This could include failing to provide basic nutrition or failing to provide medical care when needed. It may also include failing to pay the bills for necessary services, such as home health care and assistance with daily tasks like bathing.Caregivers may be neglecting their charges for a variety of reasons. Some may be distracted by other responsibilities or working long hours. Others may feel overwhelmed or feel like they have done enough.Caregivers may also be financially struggling, which can make it difficult to provide necessary care.
Financial Exploitation
Financial exploitation refers to an older adult who is financially abused through fraud, scams, or theft. It often involves the sale of an older adult’s assets, such as a home or car, with the victim being unaware that the sale is happening.Financial exploitation often occurs when an older adult has a caregiver who is in a position to control their finances. Caregivers often have access to an older adult’s bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial accounts.Caregivers may also take advantage of an older adult’s financial situation to their benefit. For example, an older adult who is experiencing a financial hardship may be at risk of falling behind on their bills. If a caregiver cashes a check for the older adult, they may keep the money and never pay the bills.Caregivers may also steal money from an older adult who is forgetful or has impaired vision.
Strategies for Protecting Your Loved One
The best way to protect your loved one is to be aware of the signs of elder abuse. If you suspect that your aging loved one is being abused, it’s important to get help immediately. If you are unsure if the situation is abusive, you should report the incident to Adult Protective Services (APS). There are also two laws that are designed to protect older adults from abuse that you should be aware of.First, the Adult Abuse Reporting Act, which went into effect in 2006, requires certain individuals to report signs of abuse to APS. This includes healthcare providers, counselors, social workers, adult protective investigators, and school employees.Second, the Older American Act, which went into effect in 2009, requires insurance companies to cover in-home services for people who need assistance with activities of daily living. Many people who need help with these tasks are elderly, so these policies protect older adults from financial abuse.
Bottom Line
Elder abuse can be prevented. To do so, you must be aware of the signs of abuse. With that information, you can take the necessary steps to protect your loved ones.