It is extremely disturbing that in this day and age where we boast of economic growth, high technology achievements, medical break-through etc. etc.and yet as a society we lack the power and gumption to ensure that our seniors are not abused in their vulnerable years.
Almost every day, new elder abuse cases are publicized or appear in court proceedings.
Many studies and researches from various countries, echo the fact the Elder Abuse is grossly under reported. And, that the majority of cases occur in private homes.
I have personally witnessed a case (The Frank Punito Case) where the victim, though now “rescued” from the abusive situation; has absolutely no assistance for his recovery.
For those who are really serious about helping/reporting elder abuse cases; learn from our experiences:
The Frank Punito Case:
The person who presented the facts on the website, received emails attacking her “agenda” and stated that the information on the site were “lies and deceitful”.
A challenge by the webmaster for the accuser to point out specifics was not responded to.
There is a box full of documentary evidence. There are people who are prepared to testify that the abuse did happened. The victim has given written permission for his experience to be published.
The case was unfortunately tied up with ‘property settlement proceedings’; thus giving the adult children of the victim the “power” to do what they did.
Now that the property settlement is over, the victim has an acceptable place to call home. This, after over 8 years living in unacceptable living quarters! Watch video clips
GUESS WHAT?
Relatives of the victim (77 years old), are against the publicity of this case. They seem to believe that the case is now over and that the victim should now reconcile with his adult children/abusers.
In a way, we can understand that elder abuse in the family is not something to tell others about.
What I do not understand is that the abusers are given more considerations than the victim.
Just like child abuse, or violence against women; the victim cannot just switch off the memories and traumatic experience that easily. Emotional and mental scars are often left with the victim.
In the Frank Punito case, the abusers would have “got away” without anyone the wiser.
It is frightening that even with ample documented evidence of the case; it was not easy to publicize the case. There was no support for the “whistle-blower” or for the victim.
What about the victim in this case? He no longer wants to see his adult children. He has 2 chronic illnesses.
How would you advise him?
One of his abusers/adult children is a consultant psychologist. The victim, therefore, do not trust any psychologist. Can we blame him?
There are no laws that cover inaction by a person who has durable power of attorney/enduring power of attorney. Often such inaction leads to elder abuse of one form or another.
No one seems to care enough to intervene. The excuse often given – “It’s a family matter. We should not interfere.”
Sound familiar?
We responded in similar fashion about 30 odd years ago with regard to child abuse.
Majority of elder abuse occurred in private dwellings. They are often NOT reported.
These victims are the forgotten ones in our society. Do we really care?
Please get involved in the fight for more rights and assistance for the victims. They need our help.
Help to empower yourselves and the valuable seniors in our society by getting information on elder abuse. Discuss this issue with friends and relatives.
We have the right to expect to live with security and dignity. Let no one deprive us of that right.
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