Elderly Abuse - Warning Signs, Prevention and Coping

While it may be troubling to consider, elderly abuse, or the abuse of elders, is a problem that exists in today's world. As people live longer lives and dependence on nursing homes and other similar facilities increases, so do the chances that elder abuse will occur. Therefore, it is important to recognize the warning signs of elderly abuse, ways to prevent elderly abuse, and ways to cope with elderly abuse.

Warning Signs of Elderly Abuse
The most obvious sign that an elder is being abused is if he or she claims that abuse is occurring. Regardless of mental state, this allegation should be investigated. In fact, elders with diminished mental capacity may be targeted more frequently.

Symptoms of depression and/or anxiety may also be signs that elderly abuse is occurring. For example, if an elder is unusually withdrawn, stops performing basic grooming tasks, or sleeps too much or too little, these symptoms of depression may be signs that elder abuse is taking place.

Physical signs may also indicate elderly abuse. An elder with minor to significant physical injuries from multiple "accidents" may be a victim of elderly abuse. If a story doesn't seem plausible or if these accidents occur at an alarming frequency, investigate.

Remember that elderly abuse can take many forms. Elderly abuse may be physical, emotional, or even financial, among others. Be aware of these and communicate with your loved one to make sure that he or she is aware of these types of abuses as well.s

Preventing Elderly Abuse
It is difficult to prevent elderly abuse definitively. If a particular facility has a reputation for sub-standard care, avoid placing your loved ones in that facility. If your loved one complains of abuse with any other caretaker, remove your loved one from that individual's care.

If your loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, make sure that you visit him or her often. If you have frequent contact with your loved one, it is more likely that you will pick up on signs of elderly abuse. Likewise, staff at these facilities will know that your loved one has a caring family - a fact that humanizes your loved one and acts as a deterrent against elderly abuse.

Coping With Elderly Abuse
If elderly abuse has occurred, be proactive in the steps you take to deal with the matter.

First, address the abuser. Take what measures you can to right the situation, legal or otherwise. For this purpose, make sure that you document everything you can, including things such as injuries and financial transactions. Tangible evidence will help considerably in a legal case.

Then, begin the healing process. Consider counseling for your loved one. Reassure him or her, and if possible, consider moving him or her to another facility or to a different family member. Always validate him or her as a human being, and reassure him or her that any feelings experienced are natural and normal for a person in his or her position. Reassure your loved one that the abuse was not his or her fault.

Spend time with your loved one, and use the experience as a way of strengthening your relationship and your family if possible.

Elderly abuse is an unfortunate problem, but steps may be taken to prevent, recognize, and cope with it if it does occur. If you or a loved one is a victim of elderly abuse, make sure to document the abuses and deal with them as soon as possible. Best wishes and thank you for reading.