Elderly Abuse By Maria Elena Castro

Definition of Elderly Abuse Elderly abuse can be defined as negligent or intentional acts performed by a caregiver or someone that is trusted, that result in harm to a vulnerable elderly person. Elder abuse is also known as: Elder Mistreatment Senior Abuse Abuse in later life Abuse of older adults Elderly Abuse is a serious crime that should be reported immediately. Some elders do not report abuse because they are scared that no one will believe them.

Types of Elder Abuse There are many types of abuse that elders can experiences. The most common form abuse that often occur is neglect. Some examples of neglect are: Failure to provide medical care. Failure to assist in personal hygiene and provide clothing and shelter. Failure to protect from health and safety hazards. Other formsof abuse are; physical abuse, financial exploitation, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. Any person that suspects any kind of abuse should immediately be reported, before the abuse escalates even more.

Warning Signs Physical Warning Signs: Poor skin condition or hygiene Unkempt or dirty Foul smelling Uncombed or matted hair scratches , blisters, or pinch marks Torn or bloody clothing Behavioral Warning Signs: Withdrawing Frightening Depressed Helpless or angry Secretive Warning Signs

Stop the Violence

Common Abusers Common abusers can be family members. Some elderly people stay silent sometimes to protect abusive family members from legal consequences of their crime. Some stay silent scared of not being believed and facing the abuser later. Abusers can take advantage of the financial state of an elderly person in long-care facility. By stealing their identity and committing fraud.

Who is at risk? The average age that an elder can be in risk is at age 78. 67% of victims are female Elder people who have memory problems (Dementia and Alzheimer’s) Who has a shared living situation Who has depression, loneliness, or lack of social support. Who have physical disabilities Abuses of alcohol or other substances

There are many health consequence that may occur after to an elder who has been abuse. It can be physical or mental. Here are a few examples: Elders who suffer abuse are more likely to stay more time in the hospital. An increasing of developing fear and anxiety reaction. Increasing susceptibility to new illness. Bed sores Increasing of stress Malnutrition Increasing of dependency Depression and dementia Death Health Consequences

1 out of every 7 senior citizens in the U 1 out of every 7 senior citizens in the U.S has been a victim of elderly abuse. It is a serious crime and should immediately be reported. Call 911. Toll-Free Crisis Line: (800)231-4024 In every county of every state there is an Adult Protective Services Agency (APS). They investigate any reports of abuse that occur in adult care facilities, private homes, clinics, and acute care hospital. Prevention

Sources https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/elderabuse/definitions.html http://topmedicalassistantprograms.org/elder-abuse-prevention-guide/ https://www.change.org/p/christian-porter-mp-elder-abuse-see-it-stop-it-prevent-it http://ag.ca.gov/bmfea/pdfs/citizens_guide.pdf https://www.shouselaw.com/elder_abuse_defense.html