6.2 Elder abuse

Elder abuse is a serious issue affecting vulnerable older adults. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and abandonment. Understanding the risk factors and warning signs is crucial for prevention and intervention.

The consequences of elder abuse are severe, impacting physical and mental health, financial security, and overall well-being. Challenges in prevention include underreporting, detection difficulties, and limited resources. A multifaceted approach is needed to address this complex problem effectively.

Forms of Elder Abuse

Physical, Emotional, and Sexual Abuse

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• Physical abuse involves the use of physical force against an older adult that may result in bodily injury, physical pain, or impairment
  • Can include hitting, pushing, slapping, or restraining an older person
• Emotional or psychological abuse involves the infliction of anguish, pain, or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts
  • Can include verbal assaults, insults, threats, intimidation, humiliation, and harassment
• Sexual abuse involves non-consensual sexual contact of any kind with an older person
  • Can include unwanted touching, sexual assault, or sexual coercion

Financial Exploitation and Neglect

• Financial exploitation involves the illegal or improper use of an elder's funds, property, or assets
  • Can include forging an older person's signature, misusing or stealing their money or possessions, or coercing them to sign documents
• Neglect is the refusal or failure to fulfill any part of a person's obligations or duties to an elder
  • Can include not providing necessary care, such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or protection from harm
• Abandonment is the desertion of an elderly person by an individual who has assumed responsibility for providing care for an elder

Risk Factors for Elder Abuse

Social and Cognitive Factors

• Older adults who are socially isolated or have limited social support are at higher risk for abuse, as they may be more vulnerable and less likely to report abuse
• Cognitive impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease, can increase an older adult's vulnerability to abuse, as they may have difficulty understanding or reporting what is happening to them

Physical Impairments and Domestic Violence History

• Physical impairments or disabilities can make older adults more vulnerable to abuse, as they may be less able to defend themselves or escape abusive situations
• A history of domestic violence in the family can increase the risk of elder abuse, as abusive patterns may continue into old age
• Warning signs of elder abuse can include unexplained injuries, changes in behavior or mental status, sudden changes in financial situation, bedsores or poor hygiene, and unexplained weight loss

Consequences of Elder Abuse

Physical and Emotional Impact

• Elder abuse can have serious physical consequences, including injuries, chronic health problems, and increased risk of premature death
  • Physical abuse can result in bruises, welts, lacerations, fractures, or internal injuries
  • Chronic health problems such as heart problems, hypertension, and digestive issues can also result from prolonged abuse
• Emotional consequences of elder abuse can include depression, anxiety, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Victims of elder abuse may experience feelings of helplessness, shame, and low self-esteem
  • They may become withdrawn, isolated, or develop new fears and anxieties

Financial Consequences

• Financial exploitation can result in the loss of savings, property, or assets, leaving older adults without the resources they need for care and support
• Older adults who have been financially exploited may be unable to pay for necessary medical care, housing, or other basic needs, leading to further health and safety risks

Challenges in Preventing Elder Abuse

Underreporting and Detection Difficulties

• Elder abuse is often underreported, as victims may be afraid to report abuse, may not understand what is happening to them, or may be unable to communicate effectively
  • Older adults may be reluctant to report abuse by family members or caregivers due to fear of retaliation, shame, or a desire to protect the abuser
• Cognitive impairments such as dementia can make it difficult for older adults to understand or report abuse, and can also make it harder for professionals to detect signs of abuse
• Lack of awareness and understanding of elder abuse among healthcare professionals, social workers, and law enforcement can lead to cases going undetected or uninvestigated

Limited Resources and Need for Multifaceted Approach

• Limited resources and funding for adult protective services and other programs that address elder abuse can make it difficult to investigate and intervene in cases of suspected abuse
• Preventing elder abuse requires a multifaceted approach, including education and awareness campaigns, screening and assessment tools for healthcare professionals, and strong legal protections and enforcement