Unfortunately, victims of elder abuse in the general community often miss out on services provided by governments and other organizations. Particularly, if the victims are living in their own homes, are financially independent and are not using any care services provided by the local government.
I refer to them as the "Forgotten Victims". Elders in this category are also exposed to abuses, often by a spouse or their adult children. However, as they are independent of government assistance and care services (e.g. home help and/or nursing services) they miss out. It is quite amazing when you realise that these are often the people who had worked hard to be financially independent, paid their taxes all their working lives etc.
Victims of Elder Abuse in this group often refuse to tell anyone about the abuses. They feel ashamed and threatened. Unless a caring friend, neighbour or relative report incidents of of abuse; they will never get help.
This is when a Helpline for reporting elder abuse becomes crucial.
Many researches from around the world have indicated that Elder Abuse (particularly, those perpetrated by spouses or adult children) is a growing global problem.
Let us be vigilant!
No comments:
Post a Comment