Elder Abuse: When the Caretaker is the Abuser (USA)

Elder abuse: When the caretaker is the abuser

August 20, 2009

NY Abusive Relationships Examiner

By Oi Yin Lo

Every year as many as 10% of older adults are reportedly abused by a family member. It should be stressed that the statistic is based on reported incidents of abuse, so the prevalence of elder abuse is likely greater than the numbers indicate. The elderly are a particularly vulnerable population for a number of reasons. They are faced with mounting health problems, dwindling financial resources, shrinking social networks and a diminishing capacity to meet their daily needs. As a result, they must rely on professional caretakers or family members to help them through their daily routines.

Elder abuse is a complicated term that has yet to be adequately defined in the eyes of the law. Along with physical and emotional abuse, the elderly are susceptible to some types of abuse that could lead to life or death circumstances.

Financial exploitation

Most elderly individuals rely on a limited income, usually a retirement fund or social security payments. As a result, they may be forced to live with their children or other family members to make ends meet. Family members may take it upon themselves to "take care" of the finances by taking over bank accounts and household budgets, thereby allowing them to spend freely without consequences.

Neglect

The elderly have to face diminishing physical health and cognitive impairments, which makes their dependence on family members for meeting their daily needs more complete. Their caretakers may fail to administered necessary medication on schedule, causing further deterioration of health.

Isolation

The elderly also have a constantly shrinking social network, thereby increasing their isolation from social supports that may help mitigate effects of abuse at home.

What you can do to help

There are a number of agencies that specialize in dealing with elder abuse. Below are some hotlines you can call if you, or someone you know is a victim of elder abuse.

· National Center on Elder Abuse hotline: 1-800-677-1116

· NYS hot line to report elder abuse: 1-800-342-3009

· Nursing Home Complaints: 1-888-201-4563

· Home-care Complaints: 1-866-893-677

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S SOURCE: The Examiner.Com

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