Understanding Elder Abuse - and How Often it Actually Happens

Whether through intentional actions, maliciousness, or neglect, nearly 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have been the victim of abuse and according to the National Council on Aging (NOCA), only 1 in 24 cases are actually reported. Many seniors are not able to report an incident of abuse, making it even more important that their loved ones pay close attention to the early warning signs. The following could be an indication of an issue and may require further investigation.

• Unexpected changes in their financial situation

• Has unexplained bruises, burns or scars

• Seems depressed, confused, or withdrawn

• Appears dirty, under-fed, dehydrated, over or under-medicated, or not receiving needed care for medical problems.

• Has bed sores or other preventable conditions

• Isolated from friends and family

• Threats or arguments between patient and caregiver

When typically thinking about domestic abuse situations, a young family is what usually comes to mind. The truth is, abuse can occur at any age and many times seniors have trouble speaking up for themselves. Elder abuse can take many forms, including the following:

• Emotional - also referred to as psychological abuse, includes emotional anguish through yelling, intimidation, bullying, using hurtful language, or ignoring.

• Physical - inflicting pain or injury through physical actions, such as hitting, punching, bruising, slapping, pinching, pushing, or restraining. Physical abuse can also constitute over or under-medicating, leaving the abused in a vulnerable state.

• Sexual - includes any non-consensual sex with an elder, as well as forcing an elder to undress or watch sexually explicit videos or images.

• Financial/Exploitation - misuse of an elder's money or property, including theft, scams, charging a fraudulent amount for services, withdrawing money from their bank account, writing checks or using credit cards without permission, identity theft, or even changing names on wills, financial accounts, property titles, or insurance documents.

• Neglect - whether passive or willful, this occurs when a caregiver does not fulfill the necessary obligations to the elder. This includes deprivation of food, medical care, assistance, or general care, such as bathing and shelter.

• Abandonment - when a caregiver abandons their responsibilities of care or custody and leaves the elder alone with no replacement help.

• Self-Neglect - whether from dementia or depression, this occurs when an elder fails to meet their own needs.

Symptoms of abuse may not immediately be clear, but paying close attention to their behavior and your intuitive feelings could help prevent a disastrous situation. If you believe someone you love could be suffering at the hands of their caregiver, let the RWI team get you the answers you need and deserve.