Elder Abuse and Neglect

As Baby Boomers begin to age, there will be increased reports of elderly abuse and neglect. Thousands of seniors are abused verbally, sexually, or physically each day. Some people may not even know they are being abused, and the abuser may not know they are abusive. Things that were acceptable years ago are now considered abuse. So, what is elder abuse and neglect, and how do we prevent abuse and neglect from occuring?
Abuse can be physical, sexual, or emtional. Physical abuse is when a person strikes or touches a person causing pain, injury, or impairment. Examples would be pushing, grabbing, forcing a person to eat, drink, or take their medication. Drawing blood, or starting an IV against their wishes can be a form of abuse in hospitals.
Emotional abuse is talking in a way that degrades an individual, or making them feel fearful. Verbal/emotional abuse is yelling, making threats, humiliating or blaming a person. Verbally terrorizing a person, isolating a person from friends and family, and ignoring a person are other forms of emotional abuse.
Who are the abusers?
Whenever you read about elder abuse, it usually is in regards to a CNA or nurse at a nursing home or assisted living facility. What people don't read about is that more abuse happens in homes where the elderly person lives. There have been increased reports to Social Services and Adult Protection regarding abuse by family members. Adult children, grandchildren,nieces, nephews, in-home paid care-givers, or spouses are often the abuser.

Please follow this post or blog. Next posting will be on neglect and what you should do if you suspect an elderlyu person being abused or neglected.