It is most disturbing that reporters of elder abuse cases to authorities in various countries, often resulted in the reporters themselves been investigated! Motives are questioned.
Why? May be it is easier for authorities to suspect the motive of the reporter than to investigate the reported case.
I now know of 3 cases where the reporters of elder abuse have been suspected of ‘unsavory motive’ and investigated. One case is still ‘in progress’ after a few years of legal wrangling.
It is NOT encouraging for any potential ‘whistle blowers’ or reporters of Elder Abuse.
We need support NOT investigation into our motives.
Are there no one in our 21st century who can be considered generous and altruistic.
Have we become so materialistic that nothing done can be judged as an act of altruism or humanity?
For those in charge of various government programs in the fight to prevent elder abuse; listen to us.
How can you expect people in the community to assist, if you treat the reporters with suspicion and contempt? Let's face it, the victim often DO NOT report the abuses. It is often left to a caring relative, friend or neighbour. Do not wait till your department is called by the police or funeral house director before you act!
This post is not to discourage others in reporting elder abuse. It is just that some issues need to be sorted out by authorities regarding the health and safety of the elderly. In their next conference or staff ‘in service’ seminar; perhaps they can look at this problem of how to treat reporters of elder abuse.
We are currently gathering information on cases where reporters of elder abuse get investigated or called into question about their ‘motives’.
Please contact me via email if you have similar experience when reporting an elder abuse case.
by Andrew
No comments:
Post a Comment