When a highly educated and trusted person, who holds a position of trust in the community, commits a crime or unconscionable act; we to feel revolted. And, rightly so!
Professionals, be it judges, lawyers, doctors, psychologist, and others, had been trained to help and others, not take advantage of them. It is therefore unacceptable in any language or country.
However, in some countries, there are still no laws to prosecute someone for Elder Abuse. Most of these countries are still "looking into the issue of enacting laws to tackle Elder Abuse".
I was "catapulted" into cyberspace to start this blog, because of an incredible case of Elder Abuse in a residential home. I am referring to the Frank Punito Case . One of the two abusers (adult children of victim) is still practicing as a psychologist.
No one could help victim because the case also involved Enduring/Durable Power of Attorney, and property settlement. There are no existing laws that could have helped the victim. So, he suffered for over 8 years and is now estranged from his family. Should we be outraged in such circumstance? DEFINITELY!
No one could help victim because the case also involved Enduring/Durable Power of Attorney, and property settlement. There are no existing laws that could have helped the victim. So, he suffered for over 8 years and is now estranged from his family. Should we be outraged in such circumstance? DEFINITELY!
FAMILY MEMBERS AS ABUSERS
We often only learnt about cases of outright abuses that leave physical evidence; depletion of assets, physical violence or neglect etc.
Every studies made to date emphasize that the majority of elder abuse cases occur in private homes.
The victims of emotional and/or psychological abuses and neglect cannot get help even if they are prepared to talk to someone about their “bad situation”. Many of such victims, though bewildered and depressed just take it as their "lot in life". They are often embarrassed and ashamed that their own children or other family memebers can do that to them. They often do not want to report such cases as they fear being "excommunicated" or worse still; to be put in a nursing home.
Every studies made to date emphasize that the majority of elder abuse cases occur in private homes.
The victims of emotional and/or psychological abuses and neglect cannot get help even if they are prepared to talk to someone about their “bad situation”. Many of such victims, though bewildered and depressed just take it as their "lot in life". They are often embarrassed and ashamed that their own children or other family memebers can do that to them. They often do not want to report such cases as they fear being "excommunicated" or worse still; to be put in a nursing home.
Society still considers such cases as “civilly matter” or “family matters” that should be left alone.
Family Dynamics or Elder Abuse?
Not too long ago, we treated child abuse in the same way. It was a taboo to talk about such cases, let alone to take action to report them. "We must always mind our own business".
But, things have changed for child abuse. We will not hesitate to report a child abuse. We do not say: “it is a family matter. Let them sort it out themselves”.
Our view on Elder Abuse in private homes must change. Violations of Human Rights, even in private homes, MUST NOT be tolerated.
Sure, we cannot discount the fact that family dynamics may be tied up in such elder abuse cases, but that should NOT matter. There must be laws in place to rescue the victims of such abuses.
Another factor, mentioned in some reports, regarding elder abuse cases in private homes; is that adult children have an inordinate sense of entitlement to their parents money; their inheritance.
The fact that seniors are living longer, means that these people have to wait much longer, to get their hands on “their inheritance”. Therefore, they see it to be their rights to neglect or abuse their parent(s) in a way as to "speed up their departure from this earth".
What can be done about such people?
At the moment there is not much we can do. It even seems to be an insurmountable problem. But it is one that we should continue to put spotlight on, and to continue the debate and discussion with the view to seek some kind of solutions.
Family Dynamics or Elder Abuse?
Not too long ago, we treated child abuse in the same way. It was a taboo to talk about such cases, let alone to take action to report them. "We must always mind our own business".
But, things have changed for child abuse. We will not hesitate to report a child abuse. We do not say: “it is a family matter. Let them sort it out themselves”.
Our view on Elder Abuse in private homes must change. Violations of Human Rights, even in private homes, MUST NOT be tolerated.
Sure, we cannot discount the fact that family dynamics may be tied up in such elder abuse cases, but that should NOT matter. There must be laws in place to rescue the victims of such abuses.
Another factor, mentioned in some reports, regarding elder abuse cases in private homes; is that adult children have an inordinate sense of entitlement to their parents money; their inheritance.
The fact that seniors are living longer, means that these people have to wait much longer, to get their hands on “their inheritance”. Therefore, they see it to be their rights to neglect or abuse their parent(s) in a way as to "speed up their departure from this earth".
What can be done about such people?
At the moment there is not much we can do. It even seems to be an insurmountable problem. But it is one that we should continue to put spotlight on, and to continue the debate and discussion with the view to seek some kind of solutions.
Perhaps we should look into something similar to Singapore Maintenance of Parents Act
(Chapter 167B); where seniors, over the age of 60, can sue for maintenance from their adult children, if they are unable to maintain themselves.
(Chapter 167B); where seniors, over the age of 60, can sue for maintenance from their adult children, if they are unable to maintain themselves.
Or, an Act that allows prosecution of adult children who have failed in their "Duty to Care".
I welcome any comments on this topic.
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