ELDER ABUSE Dr C Kotzé Dept of Psychiatry 2012

DEFINITION: Exerting any physical, mental or financial power over elderly that Infringes on the rights of a person

Physical Sexual TYPES ABUSE SYMPTOMS Bruises Cuts / abrasions Fractures Sexual Difficulty walking / standing Bruising Bleeding Always look for these signs and symptoms when dealing with the elderly

Emotional Financial TYPES ABUSE SYMPTOMS Anxious Withdrawal Depression Unusual bank balances Illegible signature Accounts not paid Always look for these signs and symptoms when dealing with the elderly

Infringement of human rights TYPES ABUSE SYMPTOMS Neglect Untreated illnesses Malnutrition Dehydration Infringement of human rights Access to pension Access to treatment Disrespect

Low socio-economic status RISK FACTORS - VICTIM Age >80 Female Low socio-economic status Physical / Mental impairment – need help with daily activities Dementia with behavioural disturbance Draw attention that potential victims can be identified early if risk factors are evident

RISK FACTORS – VICTIM Multiple medications Substance abuse (self) Poor social / family support Communication deficit History of abuse

RISK FACTORS: ABUSERS/CAREGIVERS Female Poor social / family support Stress: Work, marriage, financial, health Lack of help or training Substance abuse Draw attention that potential abusers can be identified early if risk factors are evident

RISK FACTORS: ABUSERS/CAREGIVERS Poor previous relationship with elder They isolate / restrict elderly Poor mental or physical health Low self esteem Poor impulse control

MANAGEMENT Detailed history & clinical exam Good note keeping Attend to injuries and other complications Remove from abusive situation Get support for patient and family

ACTION YOU MUST TAKE D.G Social Development (Welfare) must be informed Older Persons Act 13,2006 EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE

Options Police Department 10111 Practically: Social worker at local office notified or police HEAL: 0800 003 081(Halt Elder Abuse Line Protection Order from Magistrate (Domestic Violence Act, 116 of 1998) EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE

End Thank You EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE