Article
What is Elder Abuse? and How to Avoid it?
Lifestyle
Authored by Sunaina Joseph
Elder abuse is a multifaceted problem that includes several types of maltreatment and neglect that older people endure. This abuse could result in serious consequences for the health, well-being, and human rights of the elderly. This sort of exploitation can be carried out by family, relatives, assigned caregivers etc. Addressing this ubiquitous issue requires an understanding of the various forms of elder abuse, its risk factors, and the significance of prevention and response.
Types of Elder Abuse:
Physical abuse, which includes the use of force that causes pain or harm, is one of the numerous ways that elder abuse can manifest itself. Intimidation, seclusion or isolation; verbal threats; and insults are examples of emotional or psychological abuse that cause emotional affliction. Any non-consensual sexual interaction of any kind with an older adult is considered sexual abuse. The inappropriate or unlawful use of an elder's assets, property or finances is known as financial abuse. Neglect occurs when a senior is uncared for, harmed or at risk of injury due to a caregiver's failure to fulfil their duties.
Risk Factors:
A number of variables can make an elderly person more susceptible to abuse. Among them is social isolation, which may increase their reliance on caretakers and decrease the likelihood of disclosing abuse. In addition to cognitive impairment, the capacity to make judgments and comprehend circumstances properly might be compromised in older adults due to conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's disease, invariably making them more vulnerable to abuse and deception. Reliance on others for caregiving can lead to power disparities that raise the possibility of abuse. Vulnerability can also be influenced by elements including gender, low income, and a history of trauma.
Recognising the Signs:
Early intervention is dependent on the identification of indicators associated with elder abuse. Fractures, bruising, and other unexplained injuries might be signs of physical abuse. Even though emotional abuse can be less apparent, behavioural changes like activity withdrawal, despair or anxiety can be indicative of it. Illicit use of assets, abrupt changes in financial circumstances, and missing funds are examples of financial abuse. Malnutrition, poor sanitation, or untreated medical concerns can all be signs of neglect.
Prevention and Intervention:
A cooperative strategy including individuals, families, communities, and legislators is necessary to prevent and rectify elder abuse. People must be educated and made more conscious of their surroundings in order to identify abuse and know when to report it. In addition to addressing the root causes of abuse, such as caregiver stress, social isolation, and a lack of resources, it is critical to offer support and safety to victims of abuse. It's also critical to use legal and regulatory means to hold offenders accountable and answerable for their inhumane and unlawful deeds.