13.3 Challenges Facing the Elderly

Older adults face unique challenges in society, from financial struggles to discrimination. Poverty rates among the elderly have improved but remain higher than for working-age adults. Women, minorities, and those living alone are particularly vulnerable due to lower lifetime earnings and fewer resources.

Ageism in attitudes and institutions further complicates the lives of older adults. Negative stereotypes lead to discrimination in employment and healthcare, limiting opportunities and access to resources. Elder abuse and neglect are serious issues, with various forms of mistreatment affecting vulnerable seniors.

Challenges Facing the Elderly

Poverty trends among older adults

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• Historical trends in elderly poverty
  • Higher poverty rates among older adults compared to general population due to fixed incomes and limited earning potential
  • Decline in elderly poverty since the introduction of Social Security (1935) and Medicare (1965) providing financial support and healthcare coverage
• Current state of elderly poverty
  • Poverty rates among older adults remain higher than working-age adults (9.2% vs. 7.3% in 2020) despite social safety net programs
  • Women, minorities (African Americans, Hispanics), and those living alone are at higher risk of poverty in old age due to lower lifetime earnings and fewer resources
• Factors contributing to elderly poverty
  • Insufficient retirement savings and pensions leaving many reliant on Social Security as primary income source
  • Rising healthcare costs and out-of-pocket expenses consuming larger share of fixed incomes
  • Longer life expectancies and increased longevity risk of outliving savings and falling into poverty
  • Challenges of retirement planning and financial security in later life

Ageism in attitudes and institutions

• Ageist stereotypes and prejudices
  • Negative perceptions of older adults as frail, dependent, and cognitively impaired leading to patronizing treatment and disregard for autonomy
  • Assumptions about older workers being less productive and adaptable resulting in workplace discrimination and forced retirement
• Institutional ageism
  • Age discrimination in employment, healthcare, and other sectors limiting opportunities and access to resources
  • Lack of adequate representation and consideration in policy-making decisions that affect the lives of older adults
• Consequences of ageism
  • Reduced opportunities for older adults to participate in society and contribute their skills and experience
  • Negative impact on mental health and well-being of older individuals facing stigma and marginalization
  • Reinforcement of age-based inequalities and social exclusion exacerbating disadvantages faced by older populations

Elder abuse and neglect factors

• Types of elder abuse and neglect
  • Physical abuse involving intentional use of force causing injury or pain (hitting, restraining)
  • Emotional or psychological abuse inflicting distress through verbal or nonverbal acts (threats, humiliation)
  • Financial exploitation misusing an elder's funds or property for personal gain (theft, fraud)
  • Neglect and abandonment failing to fulfill caregiving obligations and meet basic needs (nutrition, hygiene)
• Risk factors for elder abuse and neglect
  • Dependency on caregivers for daily needs increasing vulnerability to mistreatment
  • Social isolation and lack of support networks making it difficult to seek help or report abuse
  • Cognitive impairment and dementia affecting ability to recognize and defend against abusive behavior
  • Caregiver stress and lack of resources leading to frustration and improper care
• Consequences of elder abuse and neglect
  • Physical injuries and health problems resulting from violence, neglect, or improper care (bruises, malnutrition)
  • Emotional trauma and psychological distress causing depression, anxiety, and loss of trust
  • Financial losses and increased risk of poverty due to exploitation and misuse of resources
  • Increased mortality rates among abused elders compared to non-abused peers

Housing and care options for older adults

• Aging in place: Enabling older adults to remain in their homes and communities as they age through home modifications and support services
• Long-term care facilities: Providing various levels of care and support for older adults unable to live independently
• Age-friendly communities: Designing neighborhoods and cities to accommodate the needs of older residents and promote active aging
• Intergenerational relationships: Fostering connections between different age groups to provide support and reduce social isolation among older adults