Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is an issue that has been widely ignored as it is not perceived to be a significant problem. However, cases of elder abuse are widespread and often go unnoticed due to the fact that they are underreported. “In the U.S. alone, more than half a million reports of abuse against elderly Americans reach authorities every year, and millions more cases go unreported” (Robinson, Saisan, & Segal, 2013). The abuse of the elderly can occur in many forms and can be threatening to security of an elderly individual. The elderly population is a vulnerable population that should be protected from abuse. Through being aware of the kind of abuse that can occur it may be able to be prevented.

The wide range of abuse and the perception of the elderly as adults can make it difficult to investigate. Elder abuse often occurs at the hands of someone who is caring for the elderly individual. “Elder abuse is more widely spread if not only close relatives or people with whom the older person lives are considered as possible perpetrators but other familiar and trusted people are considered as well” (Comijs, Pot, Smit, Bouter, & Jonker, 1998, p. 885). The caretaker is in a position to be able to take advantage of the person in their care. Geriatric patients may also suffer from dementia or some other illness that would make it difficult for them to report the abuse. Elderly individuals are often unaware that abuse is occurring. This can also contribute to the rates of reports of the elderly.

Elder abuse can occur in multiple forms. One of the most prominent ways is that of financial abuse. Caretakers are often in charge of the finances or are in a position to steal their money. The elderly are also susceptible to financial scams that are perpetuated through the use of technology. Elderly can also suffer physical or emotional abuse at the hands of their caretakers. Taking care of an elderly individual can be taxing and can take their toll on caretakers, who in turn may abuse the elderly individual as a response to the stresses of caring for them. The elderly vulnerability can also leave them susceptible to sexual abuse as they may be unable or unlikely to report incidences of sexual abuse. Elder abuse can also occur in the form of neglect as a caretaker may agree to take on the responsibility of their care however they do not follow through with their care. Neglect of care could worsen the condition of the elderly individual’s health. 

Being aware of the forms of elderly abuse can make the warning signs of abuse recognizable. The warning signs of financial abuse can be unexplained charges to their account, unpaid bills or misplaced money. The warning signs of physical abuse can be unexplained bruises to the individual’s body or broken bones. The warning signs of emotional abuse can be depression or withdrawal of an elderly individual from their normal activities. The warning signs of sexual abuse can be unexplained sexually transmitted infections like HIV/AIDS or ripped and bloodied clothing. The warning signs of neglect can be malnourishment or unkempt appearance. If these signs are observed in an elderly individual the abuse should be reported right away so that they can be investigated.

The reporting of elderly abuse should occur at the same rate as reporting the abuse of a child. If any sign exists it is important to report the abuse right away so that the elderly individual can be protected. The investigator would determine if the abuse is occurring or not. Elder abuse can also be prevented by ensuring that an adequate caretaker is caring for the elderly individual. The caretaker must also be provided with stress reduction techniques so that they do not resort to abuse of the elderly. Elderly individuals who may be more susceptible to abuse should be provided with increased safeguards to ensure that they are protected and are not abused by others. Elder abuse is a serious issue and needs to be focused on as an issue of public policy. 

References

Comijs, H. C., Pot, A. M., Smit, J. H., Bouter, L. M., & Jonker, C. (1998). Elder abuse in the community: Prevalence and consequences. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 46(7), 885.

Robinson, L., Saisan, J., & Segal, L. (2013, July). Elder abuse and neglect. Help Guide. Retrieved from http://www.helpguide.org/mental/elder_abuse_physical_emotional_sexual_neglect.htm