Elder abuse is the repeated act of inflicting emotional and physical harm on a person who is older. It can take place in any relationship where the victim can expect the other person to act with respect and care. While this type of behavior may seem minor and seemingly unimportant, it can have disastrous effects on the life of an elderly person. It is extremely important to seek help if you notice any signs of a loved one being abused.
The risk of elder abuse is higher for people who are poor in health and/or have cognitive or physical impairment. It has also been linked with poverty and low economic resources. In addition, living with a large number of people in the home increases the risk of being abused. While there are many preventable causes of elder abuse, there are also many ways to prevent this from happening to your loved one. Here are some tips to help you protect your loved one from this type of violence.
In Conclusion
If you suspect that your elderly loved one is suffering from abuse or neglect, take action. Look for signs of psychological distress and a lack of empathy. The elder may not feel safe enough or comfortable talking about his or her problems. The caregiver may have a hard time controlling his or her anger and may lash out at the senior. Other people may have also expressed concern about the caregiver’s behavior. Lastly, physical abuse may be caused by sexual assault or chemical restraints.
