Elder abuse is a serious and often hidden issue that can have devastating consequences for older adults. In the US, at least one out of ten adults over the age of 65 suffers from at least one type of abuse each year, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Given that abuse happens often, how will you know if your loved one is already suffering from elder abuse? Elder abuse lawyers from Hunter Law, PC, say that suspicious behaviors like injuries, sudden changes in temperament, or lack of attention may indicate elder abuse.
What should you do in case your loved one is suffering from abuse?
Understanding the Different Types of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse comes in different forms, but all types of abuse are dangerous in their own right. Physical abuse is, for example, where pain and discomfort are inflicted upon the elderly.
Physical abuse involves instances of physical assault or threats that have psychological consequences; emotional abuse, in contrast, is that kind of abuse where the elderly’s emotions are impacted.
Sexual abuse is less common but traumatic and these almost always go underreported. Financial abuse is when people trusted by an elderly person raid his estate or steal cash, resources, or valuables.
Another type is neglect. It is defined as the caregivers’ inability to meet the most basic needs, such as food hygiene and medication. Malnutrition, poor cleanliness, and untreated medical issues may suggest neglect.
When an elderly person is not being cared for by his family members due to their jobs or lack of time, it’s advisable to find a facility where there are available carers who can attend to their needs at any time.
Convincing an elderly person to move to an assisted living facility will not be easy, but the key is to be empathetic and calm. You should communicate with them with love and understanding and convey that these facilities can help them maintain mobility and help them with day-to-day tasks such as cooking, cleaning, dressing, or taking medication.
Spotting abuse and choosing an option where an elderly person can be cared for can prolong his or her life while also maintaining a sense of security and independence.
The Impact of Elder Abuse on Victims
Elder abuse victims might experience life-altering harm. They may ache or suffer emotional sorrow, but betrayal will be real. The victim will be isolated and defenseless as caretakers or family members’ trust is constantly eroded.
Such abuse can cause layered psychological symptoms, including behavioral manifestations of anxiety and depression and feelings of worthlessness, which incapacitate the victim in the face of functional capabilities in society or the community. Abuse could prevent financial independence or security.
The long-term consequences of such acts do not just stop with the abuse; they stay for long after—long enough to deprive a victim of a beneficial living experience. When seeking help for oneself or someone else, it’s important to be aware of these effects.
Legal Steps to Take if You Suspect Elder Abuse
It is important to act quickly if there are signs of elder abuse so that criminal proceedings can be initiated to keep the possible victim safe. Document everything: the specific incidents with dates and times. This evidence will be valuable later on. After collecting the information, you should consult an attorney who specializes in elder law.
Your lawyer will explain the process and present you with legal options. You must report your suspicions to adult protective services, and the police may also need to investigate. If required, file a restraining order to prevent any additional battery upon the elder person.
If possible, offer emotional support to the elderly victim during this time. Your quick action might make a huge difference in keeping them safe and obtaining justice.
Resources for Reporting and Preventing Elder Abuse
To combat elder abuse, you must know where to get help and what resources are available. Your first stop is the Office of Adult Protective Services (APS) within your region. This office is where all the different types of abuse and neglect are reported. Or you could simply call the National Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-677-1116 for aid or support.
Administration on Aging is also one of the organizations that work to prevent elder abuse. If you find yourself to be a victim at the moment of imminent and immediate danger, please call 911.
You can educate yourself and others about the rights of older people; workshops and seminars are happening in your region. From now on, let us encourage open communication and talk to your loved ones about their health and well-being. Seniors need a secure space and an environment where they don’t feel like they are a burden.