All too frequently, caregivers knowingly and intentionally neglect, harm and imperil the very people it is their job to protect and care for. This is called Elder Abuse. It affects men and women of all ethnic backgrounds and social status.
A 1996 National Elder Abuse Incidence Study found that more than 500,000 elderly Americans were victims of abuse that year. The same study determined that only a very small percentage of those who reported abuse were referred to help. The Senate Special Committee on Aging estimated victims might be as high as 5 million per year.
The laws that define Elder Abuse differ from state to state, but it is basically defined as one or more of the following: physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, abandonment and exploitation (stealing or concealing assets). It is important to know what warning signs to look for, as victims of abuse often don’t tell others what’s happening.
Potential Signs of Elder Abuse
Things to watch out for:
Burns, broken bones and other injuries could indicate abuse or neglect
Withdrawal, lethargy, depression
Bruises, particularly around breasts or genital area
A sudden change in finance may indicate exploitation
Bedsores, poor hygiene
Unusual weight loss, unattended medical needs
Sometimes, elderly people become negligent themselves. Warning signs of this are malnourishment or dehydration, loss of interest in appearance or housekeeping, loss of interest in usual activities, or even dangerous behavior, like leaving stoves or gas on.
Self-neglect can be the result of depression, isolation or declining health. It can also indicate a drug or alcohol problem. Symptoms like confusion, hoarding, and refusing to wear suitable clothes for the weather can be early warning signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
If you keep an eye out for the warning signs, in many cases, the underlying condition can be treated. Elderly people who are suffering from cognitive or other impairments can receive specialized assistance for their conditions. Those who are isolated, depressed and/or struggling with drug or alcohol dependence can receive counseling be linked to support systems in their communities. If the problems are severe enough, a guardian may be appointed.
Elderly people who are isolated or who suffer from mental impairment are more often the victims of abuse than others. However, abuse also occurs frequently when the elderly person is living with a caregiver or friend. Spouses and adult children are most often the abusers of the elderly. Perhaps this is because a higher percentage of the elderly live at home or in the home of a relative. It could be that abuse occurs frequently in other settings as well but the percentage is less because the percentage of elderly residing in facilities is less. Either way, this is a family issue.
Protect yourself and your family by devising a long-term plan before the need hits; limit undue strain and vulnerability by planning for the future and ensuring choice for everyone involved.
Long-Term-Care.org is not a long term care insurance broker or carrier, and we cannot issue insurance policies. We are not associated with the companies profiled on Long-Term-Care.org and we make no representation, express or implied, that you will receive a quote from a specific company profiled herein. This site provides free information on insurance providers and coverage options. Products and policies may not be available in all states, and product and policy information is subject to change without notice. Please direct all insurance questions to your insurance company or broker.
