Elder Abuse – What is it and what are the signs?
Millions of older persons are abused, neglected, and exploited each year. Most victims have a dependence on others to help them meet their basic needs because they are unable, are frail, and thus they are vulnerable. Their abusers are men, women, friends, family members, caregivers, or “trusted others.”
According to the US Administration on Aging, the term elder abuse refers to “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.” Each state has its own elder abuse prevention laws with different definitions of terms.
Abuse may be defined as:
- Physical Abuse—inflicting physical pain or injury on a senior, e.g. slapping, bruising, or restraining by physical or chemical means.
- Sexual Abuse—non-consensual sexual contact of any kind.
- Neglect—the failure by those responsible to provide food, shelter, health care, or protection for a vulnerable elder.
- Exploitation—the illegal taking, misuse, or concealment of funds, property, or assets of a senior for someone else’s benefit.
- Emotional Abuse—inflicting mental pain, anguish, or distress on an elder person through verbal or nonverbal acts, e.g. humiliating, intimidating, or threatening.
- Abandonment—desertion of a vulnerable elder by anyone who has assumed the responsibility for care or custody of that person.
- Self-neglect—characterized as the failure of a person to perform essential, self-care tasks and that such failure threatens his/her own health or safety.
Signs of Elder Abuse
Some tell-tale signs that could indicate a problem are:
- Physical Abuse, Neglect, or Mistreatment – Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, and burns
- Emotional Abuse – Unusual depression, unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, and a sudden change in alertness
- Sexual Abuse – Bruises around the breasts or genital area
- Exploitation – Sudden changes in financial situations
- Neglect – Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss
- Verbal or Emotional Abuse – Behavior such as belittling, threats, and other uses of power and control by spouses or loved ones
General signs of abuse include strained or tense relationships and frequent arguments between the caregiver and the older adult. It is important to be alert because they often suffers in silence. Start to question what is going on if you notice changes in a senior’s behavior or personality. Report any suspicions you may have to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman in Oregon or Washington.
