10 June 2008
It is now almost a year, since I first broke the story of the Frank Punito case. It is unusual for an elder abuse case, in the general community (i.e. outside nursing homes) that has ample evidence provided by the victim.
A website was set up for the purpose of exposing an incredible case. That was done at the end of almost two years of frustrated plea for help for the victim. (Please note that Frank Punito is not the victim’s real name) Various government departments and community groups were contacted, in the hope that something could be done. Unfortunately, for many in the same situation, very little could be done.
No one could help because the case involved pending property settlement between the victim and his ex-wife. The two adult children worked jointly regarding their parents, and one of them has the Enduring Power of Attorney/durable Power of Attorney, for the mother.
The victim’s children had shown very little regard for the victim’s welfare, health and human rights.
Summary of the Abuses:
- Inactions on the part of the adult children, that caused untold sufferings to the father; and probably the mother too;
- Emotional and psychological abuses;
- Neglect and Isolation
Aftermath of Publishing the Case
One comment was left on the website, accusing “…..lies and deceits and hidden agenda….”; yet when I suggested that that person contact me and arrange for the viewing of evidence; there was a deafening silence. That offer was never taken up.
“Shooting the Messenger”
Some relatives of the victim, regarded my publishing the case on the internet, as “washing their family’s dirty linen” in public; even though the real name of the victim was NOT published. I am, naturally, not the flavor of the year with these people.
How did the case, and the reporting affected me?
It was, at times very upsetting, as I went through the evidence in preparation for the website on the case. Disbelief and frustrations. I found that very little could be done for the victim. The abusers had the trump-card – Enduring/Durable Power of Attorney for the mother.
It was frustrating that nothing could be done to alleviate the victim’s sufferings. It would have been easier to get results, if that was a cruelty to animal case.
Why did I publish the case?
Perhaps, I was so astounded and outraged. I had to do something to expose the case, as the evidence was overwhelming and shocking. It was a difficult case to present; as it would be difficult for many to believe that such a thing could happen.
- that the adult children could do what they did with impunity;
- Because the abusers are well-educated, and one of them is a psychologist. They should know better;
- I wanted to warn others, so they would not go through similar experience.
- I also believe very strongly, that there was violation of the victim’s Human Rights.
I was outraged that such a thing could happen in the 21st century. The victim’s life has been destroyed. All his past efforts for his family have come to nought. At 78 years of age, what will happen to him? He has lost his focus in live – his family. He is ashamed, bewildered and hurt. There are no services that can give him counsel or help him to cope with the constant reminders of his “family”.
I have documentary evidence and have seen the “living-quarters” of the victim; and was astounded that the children could leave their father in those conditions, when they could have done something. Any fair minded person would have found the victim’s “living-quarters” unacceptable even for a year, let alone over 8 years!
How did the case, and the reporting affected me?
It was, at times very upsetting and exhausting, as I went through the evidence in preparation for the website on the case.
Do I Regret Exposing the Case? Absolutely not!
Did I gain anything from reporting the case?
Only the satisfaction that I have done my best in helping a friend in need.
How could anyone, who received the overwhelming evidence of the case, not act to expose the case?
It also opened my eyes to the growing global problem of elder abuse.
I now devote some time to increasing awareness of Elder Abuse. I have become a staunch advocate for elder rights.
- Some Useful Hints for Potential Reporters of Elder Abuse:
- Be prepared for accusations of ‘hidden agenda’, ‘lies and deceits’…etc;
- Ensure that you get the approval of the victim for your reports or postings.
- Ensure that you document all the evidence. Use video equipment or camera to record evidence.
- Consider the privacy of other people who might be implicated. Avoid using real names.
- Get support and advice from organizations e.g Elder Abuse Prevention Associations or Actions on Ageing groups.
- Be prepared to wear any accusations and “cold shoulders” from others who do not want you to “wash their family’s dirty linen in public”.
- Your aim of reporting should be for increasing awareness of the issue and to prevent others from any form of elder abuse.
- Paramount to the whole exercise, of course, is to get help for the victim.
Elder Abuse is violation of the victim’s human rights.
THERE CAN NEVER BE A VALID EXCUSE FOR ELDER ABUSE.
I have experienced the difficulties and baseless accusations as a reporter of Elder Abuse.
Others have also contacted me, about their experiences. For example:
- Called a “trouble-maker”, and had difficulties getting employment after reporting.
- Suspected of having a hidden agenda
Isolated by other relatives who did not want the spotlight on them. - Motive was questioned by the authorities, she reported to. Was also told that as she was not a blood-relative; they could not take the case.
This is not meant to discourage others from reporting. Do not be discouraged.
We must all work towards a better understanding of Elder Abuse. It should not be tolerated. We must send a collective message: Elder Abuse is NOT acceptable!
Those who are in positions of influence must do their best to affect legal, social and cultural changes that will better protect our seniors.
There should also be protection for reporters.
Let me take this opportunity to salute others who have reported elder abuse. You have done the right thing.
----------------------------------------------------
No comments:
Post a Comment