The first World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is on Monday June 15, 2009.
Elder abuse is an under-recognized problem with devastating and even life-threatening consequences. Every day, headlines throughout the United States paint a grim picture of e;ders who have been abused, neglected and exploited, often by the people they trust the most.
Abusers may be spouses, adult children or grandchildren, personal acquaintances or professionals, all in positions of trust, or opportunistic strangers who prey on the vulnerable.
How big is the problem?
No one really knows. Relatively few cases are identified, as elders often are reluctant to report the mistreatment.
Experts estimate that only one in six cases is reported, which means that very few elders who have been abused get the help they need. As the baby boomers age and life expectancy increases, it is now more crucial than ever to increase attention and prevention of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
According to some state laws, elder abuse is any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. It includes physical, sexual and emotional abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, self-neglect or abandonment. The abuse may include isolation, identity theft or the theft or embezzlement of a senior's property.
Who is at risk?
Elder abuse can occur anywhere - in the home, in nursing homes or other institutions. It affects seniors across all socio-economic groups, cultures and races. Based on statistics, women and "older" elders are most likely to be victimized. Dementia is a very significant risk factor. Mental health and substance abuse issues - of both abusers and victims - also are risk factors, and isolation is a prevalent contributing factor.
Physical abuse: Use of force to threaten or physically injure a vulnerable elder.
Emotional abuse: Verbal attacks, threats, rejection, isolation or belittling acts that cause mental anguish, pain or distress to a senior.
Sexual abuse: Sexual contact that is forced, tricked, threatened, or otherwise coerced upon a vulnerable elder, including anyone who is unable to grant consent.
Exploitation: Theft, fraud, misuse or neglect of authority, and use of undue influence as a lever to gain control over an older person's money or property.
Neglect: A caregiver's failure or refusal to provide for a vulnerable elder's safety, physical or emotional needs
Abandonment: Desertion of a frail or vulnerable elder by anyone with a duty of care
Self-neglect: An inability to understand the consequences of one's own actions or inactions, which may lead to harm or endangerment.
What can I do to prevent elder abuse?
Report suspected mistreatment to an adult protective services agency or to law enforcement. Although a situation may have already been investigated, if you believe circumstances are getting worse, continue to speak out.
Keep in contact: Talk with your older friends, neighbors, and relatives. Maintaining communication helps to decrease isolation.
Be aware of the possibility of abuse: Take note of what may be happening with older family members, neighbors and acquaintances.
Tell your story: Speaking out about abuse from a personal perspective is empowering for those who have been victimized. Personal accounts help to put a "face" on this devastating issue.
Reaching out
Make it a priority to visit an older friend or relative who lives in a nursing home. Isolation is a known risk factor for elder abuse, neglect and self-neglect. Reducing isolation is as simple as reaching out, through an informal visit or by volunteering with one of the many programs that provide support and services to older individuals.
Commit to visiting an older friend, family member or neighbor who lives alone, or invite them to a family or social activity.
Participate in a citizens' group to advocate for the rights of residents of long-term care. A loved one may some day become a resident of a nursing home.
Suggestions for older individuals to reduce the risk of abuse:
1) Maintain a regular schedule of doctor and dentist visits.
2) Investigate legal strategies, including health directives, and develop a plan that meets your needs.
3) Talk about your needs with a trusted friend, neighbor or loved one.
Please contact Steven Peck's Premier Legal to talk to an experienced elder abuse and neglect attorney toll free at 1-866-999-9085.
