MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE

MISTREATMENT OF THE ELDERLY

Abuse and neglect of the elderly is a growing problem in the United States. National estimates place 1 in 20 older Americans as victims each year, more than 1.5 million cases. Those who are vulnerable to mistreatment include both those with and without impairment of dependency on family members for care. This abuse can be intentional or unintentional. Mistreatment is expected to increase dramatically due to the projected growth of the elderly population and the present incidence of abuse. Those who care for the elderly must learn to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect and intervene promptly. The action taken will prevent suffering and may save a person's life. It is also necessary to understand the causes of mistreatment and to develop methods of prevention and protection.

An important concept when discussing Elder Abuse is self Neglect. This occurs when adults are unable to meet their own basic needs. Individuals at greatest risk for self-neglect live in the community but are not receiving services. A study conducted by the National Association of Adult Protective Services Administrators, found that 79% of cases of verified adult abuse were cases of self-neglect. Most elders who do not care for themselves do not consider themselves at risk. They are fiercely independent and protective of their choices. These situations pose serious social, legal, and health problems for family members and professionals.

What is Elder Abuse and Neglect?

Elder abuse is the mistreatment of an older person and elder neglect is the failure to provide needed care, services, or supervision. Abuse may occur when a person becomes very angry, responds to what seems like a hopeless situation or when one sees an opportunity to make life easier by taking advantage of an elderly person. There are three types of abuse and neglect.

Physical abuse and Neglect

This type of mistreatment includes striking, shoving, shaking, beating, restraining, feeding improperly, and sexual assault. Sexual assault refers to any form of sexual intimacy without consent or by force, or threat of force. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to sexual assault, although many people find this inconceivable. Signs of physical mistreatment are indicated by bruises, burns, welts, lacerations, punctures, fractures, and dislocations; evidence of misuse of medications; malnutrition or dehydration; hair pulling; unexplained sexually transmitted disease or unusual genital infections; signs of physical restraint; confinement (e.g., rope burns); missing eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures, or prostheses; or unexpected, unexplained deterioration of health.

Psychological Abuse and Neglect

60;p>This type of mistreatment causes emotional stress or injury to an older person. Examples include verbal abuse, which is threatening remarks, insults, or harsh commands and remaining silent or ignoring a person. Another form is infantilism, whereby the elderly person is treated as an infant or child. This behavior demeans and diminishes a person and encourages the person to possibly accept a dependent roll. Signs of psychological mistreatment may be indicated by insomnia, sleep deprivation, a need for excessive sleep, unusual weight gain or loss, a change in appetite, tearfulness, low self-esteem, agitation or confusion.

Financial Abuse and Neglect

This type of mistreatment is defined as misuse, exploitation of or inattention to an older person's possessions or funds. Abusive behavior includes conning, pressuring the victim to distribute assets, or irresponsibly managing the victim's money, particularly for one's own gain.

Who Are Among The Abused?

The typical abuse victim:
Suffers from one or more physical or mental problems which limits his or her ability for self-care.

May be dependent on the abuser for assistance.

May be afraid, ashamed or unable to report the abuse.

May be a person age 55 or over.

Who Are Among The Abusers?

The typical abuser of the elderly:

Is most often a close relative and care giver who may live with the victim.

May be a paid care giver.

May be dependent on the victim for shelter or other necessities.

May have been mistreated as a child or spouse.

May have other problems, such as marital, emotional or financial problems, or alcohol or drug abuse.

May be feeling extreme stress from being in a care giver role.

May not have access to the social services which are needed to cope with an elderly parent.

Is It Preventable?

Eliminating or reducing the factors that may increase chances of abuse and neglect is critical to its control and prevention.

This may include:

Reducing care giver stress.

Becoming educated about elderly abuse.

Recognizing early signs of mistreatment.

Avoiding circumstances which may lead to abuse.

Working as a team player with the healthcare professionals.

Reporting suspected abuse and obtaining help.

What Is Active Approach?

All activities must be focused toward prevention and early detection. Abusers come in many disguises. They can be so-called friends, hired help or family members. Abuse can occur at home or in facilities. Care givers and family members must be alert to the possibility of mistreatment and take care of their own emotional and physical health as well. Activities that are helpfull include:

Staying as positive as possible

Staying alert to signs of self neglect

Participating in support groups

Using relaxation techniques

Obtaining household help when it is necessary

Obtaining an assessment from a geriatric care manager

Utilizing respite services