Observers are first line against abuse
April 6, 2011
Writing about elder abuse does not make it go away. It remains a persistent, growing concern. Public awareness is urgent.
Barbara Wallace of Escondido wrote to the paper and visited with me. She is seriously worried, angry about elder abuse.
Barbara shared a brief article by Paul Downey, CEO and president of Senior Community Centers. He underscored the shocking variety of abuses to disabled, ill or simply frail seniors. Most prevalent in California are physical, emotional, and financial abuse, joined by a variety of problems in long-term care.
Physical abuse leaves evidence: for example, the use of force, withholding food, rough treatment causing injury.
Emotional abuse is insidious, not as transparent. It includes verbal attacks, threats, belittling. Abandonment and neglect are serious components of emotional abuse. When we don't take care of our daily needs, deny them and refuse help, that self-denial is also abuse.
Barbara is especially concerned about abandonment and neglect. She has been involved in her parents' care for almost a decade. Her dad has died; her mother continues to live in a retirement home.
Barbara said it astonishes and troubles her that many families seem to lack interest and watchfulness. "Some families are involved, other are not," she writes. "The watch of our elderly then turns toward community. Please, North County Times, remind them."
Abridged
SOURCE: The North County Times
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