Elder Abuse on the Rise in Massachusetts (USA)

Senior Cares: Elder Abuse on the Rise in Massachusetts

By Jack Cross

Apr 16, 2009

ARLINGTON, MASS. - Mary is 86 and lives alone in a small cluttered apartment. The food in the refrigerator looks long passed its “sell by” date. Mary has been wearing the same dress for weeks, and she cannot remember when she last had a shower or a nutritious meal. Her adult son lives near but is not interested. Her adult daughter also lives near. She is somewhat involved with her mother, but she has a family and career and is unwilling or unable to improve the situation.

Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common today. It’s an example of elder abuse by neglect, and elder abuse is on the rise in Massachusetts. 

According to literature from the Protective Services Office, you should seek help if your caregiver or a family member or acquaintance:

· Is hurting you or threatening to hurt you

· Won’t let you see friends, family or your doctor

· Is not providing food and medications (or is having medications stolen)

· Is taking money or things of value

· Is signing your name without permission

· Is asking you to sign papers you don’t understand

The reporting process, as Marissa describes it, is very straightforward. It is designed to encourage anyone who sees a possible cause for concern to take action, or anyone who feels threatened to feel secure about asking for help. At the Elder Abuse Minuteman hotline number 781-272-7177 or the statewide hotline 800-922-2275, the caller can remain anonymous.

Abridged

SOURCE:     Arlington Advocate - Lexington,MA,USA

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