As we get older, we may end up needing to depend on others, be it family, friends, or carers, for various reasons.
But what if these people—those we depend on—started to take advantage of the person who needs them most? It may come in the form of physical, emotional or even financial abuse.
You may even be in a situation like this yourself, or you know someone who is, but what can you do about it?
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SOURCE: ABC.net.au - Life Matters
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June 4, 2012
Sculpture to Highlight Plight of Older People (NEW ZEALAND)
By DUBBY HENRY
Child abuse gets a lot of attention. But neglect or abuse of seniors often goes under the radar.
To raise awareness of the issue, Age Concern Counties Manukau is creating a sculpture and seating area in its garden for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15.
Age Concern elder abuse educator Angela Patchett says the plight of older people in the community is often unrecognised.
Elder abuse is any violation of the rights of elderly people. They may be physically harmed by the abuse but it can take more subtle forms as well, she says.
Those in a position of trust such as family members could misuse or take control of the person's money, not give them a say in their own life or not tend adequately to the person's basic needs.
The Manukau Beautification Trust is building the sculpture and seating and an Age Concern focus group is working on the mosaics to decorate the seating area.
Words like zest, wisdom, spirit and care will be picked out in mosaic panels to highlight the positive contributions older people make.
Mangere resident David Fox has been helping the focus group craft the mosaics.
The 82-year-old says when he started the project he had "no idea" what he was doing "but you can always learn".
Mr Fox got involved with Age Concern with encouragement from his wife, who died five years ago.
As part of his volunteer work he's visited many resthomes and units and come across many cases of elder neglect.
Often it's a case of "families that don't take enough interest" in their older members, he says.
"You do come in contact with people who don't know which way to go and need help."
Sometimes it's as simple as family not taking the time to explain technology, like the upcoming digital TV switchover. Such things might seem small to family but if not understood can cause unnecessary worry.
Ms Patchett says people will be welcome to wander into Age Concern's to have a look at the sculpture at Cambria Park Homestead, 250 Puhinui Rd, Papatoetoe after the invitation-only June 15 launch.
© Fairfax NZ News
SOURCE: The Stuff.co.nz
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Child abuse gets a lot of attention. But neglect or abuse of seniors often goes under the radar.
To raise awareness of the issue, Age Concern Counties Manukau is creating a sculpture and seating area in its garden for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15.
Age Concern elder abuse educator Angela Patchett says the plight of older people in the community is often unrecognised.
Elder abuse is any violation of the rights of elderly people. They may be physically harmed by the abuse but it can take more subtle forms as well, she says.
Those in a position of trust such as family members could misuse or take control of the person's money, not give them a say in their own life or not tend adequately to the person's basic needs.
The Manukau Beautification Trust is building the sculpture and seating and an Age Concern focus group is working on the mosaics to decorate the seating area.
Words like zest, wisdom, spirit and care will be picked out in mosaic panels to highlight the positive contributions older people make.
Mangere resident David Fox has been helping the focus group craft the mosaics.
The 82-year-old says when he started the project he had "no idea" what he was doing "but you can always learn".
Mr Fox got involved with Age Concern with encouragement from his wife, who died five years ago.
As part of his volunteer work he's visited many resthomes and units and come across many cases of elder neglect.
Often it's a case of "families that don't take enough interest" in their older members, he says.
"You do come in contact with people who don't know which way to go and need help."
Sometimes it's as simple as family not taking the time to explain technology, like the upcoming digital TV switchover. Such things might seem small to family but if not understood can cause unnecessary worry.
Ms Patchett says people will be welcome to wander into Age Concern's to have a look at the sculpture at Cambria Park Homestead, 250 Puhinui Rd, Papatoetoe after the invitation-only June 15 launch.
© Fairfax NZ News
SOURCE: The Stuff.co.nz
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Elder Abuse Video to Premier in Westport (USA)
May 31, 2012
A video on elder abuse produced and shot in Fairfield County will premier on Thursday, June 14, at the Westport Center for Senior Activities.
The video will be shown at 3 p.m. in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and a discussion will follow, according to a news release issued by the The Jewish Home of Fairfield County, one of the program sponsors.
The video -- "Imagine a World without Elder Abuse: We All Play a Role." -- is the work of three Fairfield County organizations that work with the elderly: the Coalition for Abuse Prevention of the Elderly; the Jewish Home ; and the Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging.
The program is free and open to the public. The post-video discussion will cover ways to detect and prevent elder abuse, according to the release. A victim of elder abuse is expected to tell her family's story and share her insights on how the elderly can remain safe.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was first observed in 2006, promoted by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, the release stated.
Abuse and neglect of older persons around the globe is largely under-recognized and a costly public health and human rights concern, according to the release stated.
The Westport Center for Senior Activities at 21 Imperial Ave.
For more information, email Laura Snow at lsnow@jhe.org or call her at 203-365-6403.
SOURCE: The Westport News
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A video on elder abuse produced and shot in Fairfield County will premier on Thursday, June 14, at the Westport Center for Senior Activities.
The video will be shown at 3 p.m. in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and a discussion will follow, according to a news release issued by the The Jewish Home of Fairfield County, one of the program sponsors.
The video -- "Imagine a World without Elder Abuse: We All Play a Role." -- is the work of three Fairfield County organizations that work with the elderly: the Coalition for Abuse Prevention of the Elderly; the Jewish Home ; and the Southwestern Connecticut Agency on Aging.
The program is free and open to the public. The post-video discussion will cover ways to detect and prevent elder abuse, according to the release. A victim of elder abuse is expected to tell her family's story and share her insights on how the elderly can remain safe.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was first observed in 2006, promoted by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, the release stated.
Abuse and neglect of older persons around the globe is largely under-recognized and a costly public health and human rights concern, according to the release stated.
The Westport Center for Senior Activities at 21 Imperial Ave.
For more information, email Laura Snow at lsnow@jhe.org or call her at 203-365-6403.
SOURCE: The Westport News
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Financial Exploitation Awareness Training (USA)
FINANCE: F.E.A.T. focuses on preventing elder abuse
Statistics from the U.S. Census indicate that the population of older Americans (65 years and over) is expected to at least double from 2000 to more than 72 million by 2030.
By: Rick Clayburgh, Prairie Business Magazine
June 01, 2012
Statistics from the U.S. Census indicate that the population of older Americans (65 years and over) is expected to at least double from 2000 to more than 72 million by 2030. Something you may not know is that North Dakota has the highest proportion of elderly — 85 and over — in the nation. Elder financial exploitation is growing and becoming a significant problem affecting thousands of North Dakotans. It is being called the “crime of the 21st century.” It is the least understood of all crimes and has been called the silent crime because 90 percent of elder abuse is perpetrated by family members. There is a great amount of embarrassment and shame with this crime because losing control of personal finances can be devastating.
The North Dakota Bankers Association listened to the concerns of its member banks and partnered with Guardian Protective Services to develop a free training program to give bank employees the necessary tools to recognize elder fraud and exploitation. The program is called Financial Exploitation Awareness Training. Bank frontline employees are in a unique position to most likely be the first to witness a financial crime being committed. Education is the best weapon against elderly financial abuse. We see F.E.A.T. as a proactive approach to help prevent fraud. Employees also learn how to report a suspicious activity without breaching the rules regarding their duty of confidentiality.
Along with training bank employees, NDBA and Guardian Protective Services have also been holding one-hour seminars for seniors. Banks across North Dakota are hosting the events. Julie Dolbec, NDBA, and Judy Vetter, Guardian Protective Services, interact with the participants and show them how to take steps to protect themselves and not fall victim to elder abuse. During the seminars, one of the most important lessons seniors learn is that they are not alone. It is amazing to listen as seniors begin to share specific scams they have experienced and talk about how they are trying to protect themselves. The prevailing theme of the seminar is “trust your banker.” It is rewarding to visit with and reassure them that their banker is always there to help them.
The response to the F.E.A.T. program has been incredible. On-site training began in fall 2011 and more than 1,200 bank employees have received the training and more than 1,000 seniors have attended a bank-sponsored seminar. Each seminar reaffirms the importance of building awareness to the rapid growth of fraud and financial crime.
The mission of the NDBA is to provide “extraordinary leadership for North Dakota banks.” We hope that bringing awareness to our banks about this silent crime and providing helpful tools, that together we can make a difference. People need to know they are not alone and that there is help. PB
SOURCE: The Prairie Business
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Statistics from the U.S. Census indicate that the population of older Americans (65 years and over) is expected to at least double from 2000 to more than 72 million by 2030.
By: Rick Clayburgh, Prairie Business Magazine
June 01, 2012
Statistics from the U.S. Census indicate that the population of older Americans (65 years and over) is expected to at least double from 2000 to more than 72 million by 2030. Something you may not know is that North Dakota has the highest proportion of elderly — 85 and over — in the nation. Elder financial exploitation is growing and becoming a significant problem affecting thousands of North Dakotans. It is being called the “crime of the 21st century.” It is the least understood of all crimes and has been called the silent crime because 90 percent of elder abuse is perpetrated by family members. There is a great amount of embarrassment and shame with this crime because losing control of personal finances can be devastating.
The North Dakota Bankers Association listened to the concerns of its member banks and partnered with Guardian Protective Services to develop a free training program to give bank employees the necessary tools to recognize elder fraud and exploitation. The program is called Financial Exploitation Awareness Training. Bank frontline employees are in a unique position to most likely be the first to witness a financial crime being committed. Education is the best weapon against elderly financial abuse. We see F.E.A.T. as a proactive approach to help prevent fraud. Employees also learn how to report a suspicious activity without breaching the rules regarding their duty of confidentiality.
Along with training bank employees, NDBA and Guardian Protective Services have also been holding one-hour seminars for seniors. Banks across North Dakota are hosting the events. Julie Dolbec, NDBA, and Judy Vetter, Guardian Protective Services, interact with the participants and show them how to take steps to protect themselves and not fall victim to elder abuse. During the seminars, one of the most important lessons seniors learn is that they are not alone. It is amazing to listen as seniors begin to share specific scams they have experienced and talk about how they are trying to protect themselves. The prevailing theme of the seminar is “trust your banker.” It is rewarding to visit with and reassure them that their banker is always there to help them.
The response to the F.E.A.T. program has been incredible. On-site training began in fall 2011 and more than 1,200 bank employees have received the training and more than 1,000 seniors have attended a bank-sponsored seminar. Each seminar reaffirms the importance of building awareness to the rapid growth of fraud and financial crime.
The mission of the NDBA is to provide “extraordinary leadership for North Dakota banks.” We hope that bringing awareness to our banks about this silent crime and providing helpful tools, that together we can make a difference. People need to know they are not alone and that there is help. PB
SOURCE: The Prairie Business
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Elder Abuse and The Law (CA. USA)
Laws are in place to protect elders and dependent adults from being abused. “Elder” means age 65 and older. “Dependent adult” means anyone between the ages of 18 and 64 who has physical or mental limitations that restrict his or her ability to carry out normal activities or to protect his or her rights. The legal definition, found at Welfare and Institutions Code 15610.23 includes people with developmental disabilities or whose physical or mental abilities have diminished because of age as well as people in this age group who are inpatients in a 24-hour health facility as defined by the Health and Safety Code.
Requests for restraining orders of this type come to Court from different sources:
• Organizations such as Legal Assistance to the Elderly, Cooperative Restraining Order Clinic or Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach
• Adult Protective Services of the Human Services Agency of San Francisco
• A conservator may apply on behalf of a conservatee (either as part of the existing conservatorship case or as a separate new elder abuse case);
• A person with power of attorney may apply on behalf of the authorizing person; and
• A qualifying individual may apply on his or her own behalf.
Forms
Forms for elder or dependent adult abuse are mandatory. There is no filing fee: (Please go to SOURCE)
Abridged
SOURCE: The Superior Court of California, Country of San Francisco
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June 1, 2012
Governor Bentley Signs Elder Abuse Prevention Act
Jun 01, 2012
By Mary Howard
FLORENCE, AL (WAFF)
Governor Bentley signed into law the Elder Abuse Prevention Act.
The bill is designed to prevent and prosecute elder abuse. Senator Tammy Irons of Florence fought for three years to make the bill a reality.
"I am grateful that Governor Bentley realized the importance of protecting our senior citizens and signed my bill into law this session," said Irons in a press statement. "This is the first step in protecting our senior citizens from abuse in all of its disgusting forms—physical, emotional and financial"
The law will create a committee of governmental and non-governmental agencies. The agencies will work together to train and research on elder abuse and work to prevent and prosecute it when it occurs.
Approximately 6,000 cases of elder abuse are reported every year. Officials estimate, though, that anywhere from 25,000 to 75,000 cases go unreported every year.
Copyright 2012 WAFF. All rights reserved
SOURCE: WAFF
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By Mary Howard
FLORENCE, AL (WAFF)
Governor Bentley signed into law the Elder Abuse Prevention Act.
The bill is designed to prevent and prosecute elder abuse. Senator Tammy Irons of Florence fought for three years to make the bill a reality.
"I am grateful that Governor Bentley realized the importance of protecting our senior citizens and signed my bill into law this session," said Irons in a press statement. "This is the first step in protecting our senior citizens from abuse in all of its disgusting forms—physical, emotional and financial"
The law will create a committee of governmental and non-governmental agencies. The agencies will work together to train and research on elder abuse and work to prevent and prosecute it when it occurs.
Approximately 6,000 cases of elder abuse are reported every year. Officials estimate, though, that anywhere from 25,000 to 75,000 cases go unreported every year.
Copyright 2012 WAFF. All rights reserved
SOURCE: WAFF
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Report All Elder Abuse Suspicions
Report all elder abuse suspicions
By Editor Saturday
June 2nd, 2012
THE HSE received 2,302 referrals of elder abuse last year, which represented an increase of 9% on 2010, and this greater number of such reports – while illustrating a welcome extra awareness of this serious blight on our society – would seem to indicate that there is a lot more abuse going on than people realise. What makes the situation even sadder is that, in the majority of cases, the abuse was being perpetrated by close relatives, and in 48 per cent of all cases, the alleged abuser and victim were living together.
Psychological abuse was the most common type reported last year, accounting for just over a third of allegations. Almost a quarter involved financial abuse, while neglect (19%) and physical abuse (12%) were the other types reported and there were also incidences of self-neglect and a small, but totally unacceptable number of cases of abuse of people residing in private nursing homes.
Our excellent public health nursing service was to the fore in identifying suspected abuse cases, as they have regular contact with elderly people in their homes – where some 81% of alleged abuse occurs – and can act as their advocates where necessary. However, they can only pass on their suspicions to social services who may ultimately involve the Gardaí, if warranted, and in all cases the wishes of the older person need to be respected; only 15% of alleged cases last year were referred to the Gardai.
A study by the National Centre for the Protection of Older People in 2010, found anecdotal evidence of under-reporting of elder abuse and reasons given to them for people’s reluctance to report it included not recognising the behaviour as abusive, a reluctance to inform on perpetrators, lack of knowledge on how to report abuse, feelings of guilt or shame as well as a lack of confidence in the professionals to detect or respond to elder abuse.
To give them their due, HSE personnel do their best to resolve most suspected cases of elder abuse by working with families to resolve issues, with monitoring, home support, counselling and mediation being used as appropriate, but this can only happen where co-operation is forthcoming.
Families tend to be tight-knit, so detecting abuse in the first place can be difficult, especially when sons or daughters were the alleged perpetrators in 44% of cases reported last year, a partner, husband or wife in 18% of cases and other relatives in 18% of cases. Also, many older people may be too proud to admit that they are being abused by one of their own, so a large amount of cases may go unreported or undetected.
Most of the alleged victims of elder abuse in 2011 were female and there was a higher referral rate among the over-80 years age group, compared to 64 to 79-year-olds. The over-80s tend to be more dependent on others to look after their affairs and often feel that they are not in a position to complain, especially where psychological abuse is being perpetrated against them, so anyone who suspects that such people’s vulnerability is being exploited should report their suspicions in confidence to the appropriate authorities.
With most cases of elder abuse occurring in the community, the older people’s charity Age Action is encouraging the public to make themselves aware of the possible warning signs of abuse. There are a lot more older people often living lonely lives in rural areas who may also be vulnerable to abuse.
Overall, since 2008, the number of referrals of elder abuse has risen by 22% and this has been attributed to an increasing public awareness of the issue and a greater appreciation of how to report abuse. Anyone who is being abused, or is concerned about abuse, should talk to someone they can trust, a health professional such as a GP, public health nurse or social worker, or contact the HSE information line on 1850 24 1850 – open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm.
SOURCE: The Southern Star, ie
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By Editor Saturday
June 2nd, 2012
THE HSE received 2,302 referrals of elder abuse last year, which represented an increase of 9% on 2010, and this greater number of such reports – while illustrating a welcome extra awareness of this serious blight on our society – would seem to indicate that there is a lot more abuse going on than people realise. What makes the situation even sadder is that, in the majority of cases, the abuse was being perpetrated by close relatives, and in 48 per cent of all cases, the alleged abuser and victim were living together.
Psychological abuse was the most common type reported last year, accounting for just over a third of allegations. Almost a quarter involved financial abuse, while neglect (19%) and physical abuse (12%) were the other types reported and there were also incidences of self-neglect and a small, but totally unacceptable number of cases of abuse of people residing in private nursing homes.
Our excellent public health nursing service was to the fore in identifying suspected abuse cases, as they have regular contact with elderly people in their homes – where some 81% of alleged abuse occurs – and can act as their advocates where necessary. However, they can only pass on their suspicions to social services who may ultimately involve the Gardaí, if warranted, and in all cases the wishes of the older person need to be respected; only 15% of alleged cases last year were referred to the Gardai.
A study by the National Centre for the Protection of Older People in 2010, found anecdotal evidence of under-reporting of elder abuse and reasons given to them for people’s reluctance to report it included not recognising the behaviour as abusive, a reluctance to inform on perpetrators, lack of knowledge on how to report abuse, feelings of guilt or shame as well as a lack of confidence in the professionals to detect or respond to elder abuse.
To give them their due, HSE personnel do their best to resolve most suspected cases of elder abuse by working with families to resolve issues, with monitoring, home support, counselling and mediation being used as appropriate, but this can only happen where co-operation is forthcoming.
Families tend to be tight-knit, so detecting abuse in the first place can be difficult, especially when sons or daughters were the alleged perpetrators in 44% of cases reported last year, a partner, husband or wife in 18% of cases and other relatives in 18% of cases. Also, many older people may be too proud to admit that they are being abused by one of their own, so a large amount of cases may go unreported or undetected.
Most of the alleged victims of elder abuse in 2011 were female and there was a higher referral rate among the over-80 years age group, compared to 64 to 79-year-olds. The over-80s tend to be more dependent on others to look after their affairs and often feel that they are not in a position to complain, especially where psychological abuse is being perpetrated against them, so anyone who suspects that such people’s vulnerability is being exploited should report their suspicions in confidence to the appropriate authorities.
With most cases of elder abuse occurring in the community, the older people’s charity Age Action is encouraging the public to make themselves aware of the possible warning signs of abuse. There are a lot more older people often living lonely lives in rural areas who may also be vulnerable to abuse.
Overall, since 2008, the number of referrals of elder abuse has risen by 22% and this has been attributed to an increasing public awareness of the issue and a greater appreciation of how to report abuse. Anyone who is being abused, or is concerned about abuse, should talk to someone they can trust, a health professional such as a GP, public health nurse or social worker, or contact the HSE information line on 1850 24 1850 – open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm.
SOURCE: The Southern Star, ie
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Unlicensed Homes to Face More State Scrutiny
by Alex Ferreras
May 31, 2012
( Source: Craig Schneider and Andria Simmons The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (MCT) —
In the obscure world of personal care homes, the worst abuse of vulnerable adults often happens in unlicensed facilities that state officials often can’t find, don’t inspect and have few resources to shut down, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has found.
The AJC found cases of residents being beaten with belts and burned with curling irons, kept in basements with buckets for toilets, robbed of their public assistance and pension checks, and shuttled from home to home as operators kept a step ahead of the law.
Unlicensed homes “are what keep me up nights,” said Brian Looby, director of the Division of Healthcare Facility Regulation within the state Department of Community Health. “We just don’t know they’re out there until somebody lets us know.”
In an ongoing examination of personal care homes that aid adults, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has analyzed thousands of inspection reports as well as interviewing state and local officials, social service providers, advocates for vulnerable adults and residents and their families.
Rogue operators
Personal care homes are required to be licensed and regularly inspected by DCH. But advocates say they see a growing number of unlicensed homes — perhaps hundreds around the state — operating outside the law, unregulated by any agency.
Unlicensed homes tend to charge less than licensed facilities, but they are often shabbier and offer fewer services, said Mary Twomey, co-director of the National Center on Elder Abuse.
“This is the underground gray economy,” said Twomey, who said the problem is not unique to Georgia. “These can be some of the most invisible citizens.”
Georgia officials say a new law that takes effect July 1 will finally empower them to crack down on rogue operators.
The law for the first time criminalizes the operation of an unlicensed personal care home, making the first instance a misdemeanor and the second a felony. It also allows the state to immediately impose fines.
Beforehand, when an unlicensed home came to light, the state simply gave the owner a month or two to get a license. The new law also gives the Georgia Bureau of Investigation authority to investigate unlicensed personal care homes.
“We’re not going to allow this practice to continue,” said state Rep. Sharon Cooper, R-Marietta, a nurse who sponsored the law. Under the old law, she said, “there was no punishment.”
However, the GBI has few resources to devote to the task, and no other agency is charged with rooting out illegal homes and shutting them down.
State regulators must get a warrant to enter an unlicensed home without the owner’s permission; they have obtained such warrants only twice in the past 12 months, Looby said. In many of the cases, officials said, the owners allowed regulators to enter without a warrant.
How to help
To report abuse, neglect or exploitation of elderly, developmentally disabled or mentally ill adults
• In a home or residence: Call Division of Aging Services, Adult Protective Services 1-888-774-0152 or 911
• In a personal care home: Call Healthcare Facility Regulation (HFR) 1-800-878-6442.
Abridged
SOURCE:
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May 31, 2012
( Source: Craig Schneider and Andria Simmons The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (MCT) —
In the obscure world of personal care homes, the worst abuse of vulnerable adults often happens in unlicensed facilities that state officials often can’t find, don’t inspect and have few resources to shut down, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has found.
The AJC found cases of residents being beaten with belts and burned with curling irons, kept in basements with buckets for toilets, robbed of their public assistance and pension checks, and shuttled from home to home as operators kept a step ahead of the law.
Unlicensed homes “are what keep me up nights,” said Brian Looby, director of the Division of Healthcare Facility Regulation within the state Department of Community Health. “We just don’t know they’re out there until somebody lets us know.”
In an ongoing examination of personal care homes that aid adults, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has analyzed thousands of inspection reports as well as interviewing state and local officials, social service providers, advocates for vulnerable adults and residents and their families.
Rogue operators
Personal care homes are required to be licensed and regularly inspected by DCH. But advocates say they see a growing number of unlicensed homes — perhaps hundreds around the state — operating outside the law, unregulated by any agency.
Unlicensed homes tend to charge less than licensed facilities, but they are often shabbier and offer fewer services, said Mary Twomey, co-director of the National Center on Elder Abuse.
“This is the underground gray economy,” said Twomey, who said the problem is not unique to Georgia. “These can be some of the most invisible citizens.”
Georgia officials say a new law that takes effect July 1 will finally empower them to crack down on rogue operators.
The law for the first time criminalizes the operation of an unlicensed personal care home, making the first instance a misdemeanor and the second a felony. It also allows the state to immediately impose fines.
Beforehand, when an unlicensed home came to light, the state simply gave the owner a month or two to get a license. The new law also gives the Georgia Bureau of Investigation authority to investigate unlicensed personal care homes.
“We’re not going to allow this practice to continue,” said state Rep. Sharon Cooper, R-Marietta, a nurse who sponsored the law. Under the old law, she said, “there was no punishment.”
However, the GBI has few resources to devote to the task, and no other agency is charged with rooting out illegal homes and shutting them down.
State regulators must get a warrant to enter an unlicensed home without the owner’s permission; they have obtained such warrants only twice in the past 12 months, Looby said. In many of the cases, officials said, the owners allowed regulators to enter without a warrant.
How to help
To report abuse, neglect or exploitation of elderly, developmentally disabled or mentally ill adults
• In a home or residence: Call Division of Aging Services, Adult Protective Services 1-888-774-0152 or 911
• In a personal care home: Call Healthcare Facility Regulation (HFR) 1-800-878-6442.
©2012 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Atlanta, Ga.)
Abridged
SOURCE:
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May 30, 2012
Who Are The Elder Abusers?
May 26, 2012
Researchers have estimated that anywhere from five to twenty-three percent of all caregivers are physically abusive. Most agree that abuse relates to the stresses associated with providing care. (AoA, 2012)
Families need to be mindful of the factors that will put caregivers at risk to become abusers.
All family caregivers will be under more stress, especially with regard to finding hours and resources needed to supply care. At some point, they will be compromised by feelings of depression.
When they begin to look at the caregiving as more of a burden than an opportunity for reward, these contributing factors can become especially pernicious:
• Poor history of coping with stress
• Depression that does not resolve
• Lack of support from family
• Unresolved financial difficulties
• Alcohol and other substance abuse
• Marital or family problems
• Work problems including failure to be present or do job because of family concerns
• Lack of respite care
• No tools to deal with behavior problems
• Physical illness often stress related
• Social isolation
• Multiple individuals needing care
• Lack of adequate sleep
• Prior dysfunctional relationship between caregiver and the cared-for
Most of us possess the desire to be helpful, but not all of us have the empathy and patience needed to be effective caregivers.
We can learn what it takes but there has to be a willingness to learn. Even then, all of us have various abilities to cope with stress and stress is part of the game when you are caring for a loved one.
If you previously had a difficult issue-filled relationship with the person in your care, those issues -- both resolved and unresolved - are not going to go away.
Awareness must be brought to bear, especially around role changes. If a wife is now taking care of a husband who was abusive or mean spirited, vengeance can factor in. If a child is now taking care of a parent who was not an especially good parent, again, revenge can become a factor, but just as importantly, that child now caring for a parent may never have experienced what it means to be a good caretaker.
Abuse can be a two way street in the care relationship.
Sometimes in the care situation, especially in cases of dementia, the worse aspects of the elderly one's behavior begins to manifest, even behaviors long buried. Grandchildren are often surprised to discover that their sweet and gentle grandmother has a nasty side to her. Acting out against the caretaker may seem like a new behavior, but it may also be rooted in a less than kind relationship that the grandparent had years ago with her own children.
The bottom line though is that caregiver must always find a way to take the high road. There may seem like there are justified reasons for mistreatment or neglect, but as soon as you find yourself thinking that way you need to draw your feelings back and get some help!
Education, self-awareness, and support are critical needs for all caregivers. You should not be alone and you do not need to be alone. Find out how we can help you maintain a loving and caring relationship with the elderly relative in your care.
SOURCE: The ButterflyEffects
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Researchers have estimated that anywhere from five to twenty-three percent of all caregivers are physically abusive. Most agree that abuse relates to the stresses associated with providing care. (AoA, 2012)
Families need to be mindful of the factors that will put caregivers at risk to become abusers.
All family caregivers will be under more stress, especially with regard to finding hours and resources needed to supply care. At some point, they will be compromised by feelings of depression.
When they begin to look at the caregiving as more of a burden than an opportunity for reward, these contributing factors can become especially pernicious:
• Poor history of coping with stress
• Depression that does not resolve
• Lack of support from family
• Unresolved financial difficulties
• Alcohol and other substance abuse
• Marital or family problems
• Work problems including failure to be present or do job because of family concerns
• Lack of respite care
• No tools to deal with behavior problems
• Physical illness often stress related
• Social isolation
• Multiple individuals needing care
• Lack of adequate sleep
• Prior dysfunctional relationship between caregiver and the cared-for
Most of us possess the desire to be helpful, but not all of us have the empathy and patience needed to be effective caregivers.
We can learn what it takes but there has to be a willingness to learn. Even then, all of us have various abilities to cope with stress and stress is part of the game when you are caring for a loved one.
If you previously had a difficult issue-filled relationship with the person in your care, those issues -- both resolved and unresolved - are not going to go away.
Awareness must be brought to bear, especially around role changes. If a wife is now taking care of a husband who was abusive or mean spirited, vengeance can factor in. If a child is now taking care of a parent who was not an especially good parent, again, revenge can become a factor, but just as importantly, that child now caring for a parent may never have experienced what it means to be a good caretaker.
Abuse can be a two way street in the care relationship.
Sometimes in the care situation, especially in cases of dementia, the worse aspects of the elderly one's behavior begins to manifest, even behaviors long buried. Grandchildren are often surprised to discover that their sweet and gentle grandmother has a nasty side to her. Acting out against the caretaker may seem like a new behavior, but it may also be rooted in a less than kind relationship that the grandparent had years ago with her own children.
The bottom line though is that caregiver must always find a way to take the high road. There may seem like there are justified reasons for mistreatment or neglect, but as soon as you find yourself thinking that way you need to draw your feelings back and get some help!
Education, self-awareness, and support are critical needs for all caregivers. You should not be alone and you do not need to be alone. Find out how we can help you maintain a loving and caring relationship with the elderly relative in your care.
SOURCE: The ButterflyEffects
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May 29, 2012
Awareness is Key to Ending Elder Abuse
National News: Awareness is key to ending elder abuse, Minister Wong tells international audience
May 28, 2012
Footnote: Written by: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Prague, Czech Republic, May 28, 2012
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), is meeting with international counterparts and stakeholders today to discuss and promote the interests of seniors, including the serious problem of elder abuse, at two international conferences.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is our opportunity to come together to put a spotlight on this critical issue facing all of our countries,” said Minister of State Wong. “Canada stands with the international community in its efforts to raise awareness, to more effectively measure the prevalence and to legislate tougher penalties for those who abuse seniors.”
Minister Wong gave opening remarks today at the 7th World Conference and Commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, hosted by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. Tomorrow, she will provide greetings at the 11th Global Conference on Ageing: “Ageing Connects,” organized by the International Federation on Ageing.
As part of its ongoing commitment to address elder abuse, the Government of Canada continues to play an active role in addressing elder abuse through awareness campaigns, the New Horizons for Seniors Program and recently proposed legislation. The Government of Canada also continues to work with its domestic and international partners to address elder abuse and advance the overall well-being of seniors, taking into consideration the challenges of an aging population.
The Government of Canada is working hard to help improve the lives of seniors on many fronts. These efforts include:
• introducing a new Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) top-up benefit to help Canada’s most vulnerable seniors. This is the largest increase in the GIS for the lowest-income seniors in 25 years. The measure further improves the financial security and well-being of more than 680 000 seniors across Canada. It represents an investment of more than $300 million annually;
• increasing funding to the New Horizons for Seniors Program in 2011 by $5 million for two years, bringing the Program’s annual budget to $45 million. The Program helps seniors use their leadership abilities, energy and skills to benefit communities across Canada;
• providing Canadians with close to $76 billion this year through Canada’s public pension system;
• providing $2.5 billion this fiscal year in additional tax relief to seniors and pensioners through measures such as enabling pension-income splitting and increasing the Age credit;
• providing $400 million over two years under Canada’s Economic Action Plan for the construction of housing units for low-income seniors;
• supporting positive and active ageing through the collaborative Age-Friendly Communities Initiative, Physical Activity Tips for Older Adults and fall-prevention initiatives;
• appointing a Minister of State (Seniors)—someone who can bring the concerns of older Canadians to the Cabinet table and stand up on their behalf;
• establishing October 1 as National Seniors Day to recognize the significant and ongoing contributions seniors make to families, communities, workplaces and society; and
• ongoing action to address elder abuse including: awareness campaigns, the New Horizons for Seniors Program, which includes projects to raise awareness of elder abuse, and recently proposed legislation that would help ensure consistently tough penalties for offences involving abuse of elderly persons.
Find out more
For more information on what the Government of Canada is doing for seniors, visit www.seniors.gc.ca.
SOURCE: TheNorthumberlandandView, Canada
_____________________________________
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May 28, 2012
Footnote: Written by: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Prague, Czech Republic, May 28, 2012
The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), is meeting with international counterparts and stakeholders today to discuss and promote the interests of seniors, including the serious problem of elder abuse, at two international conferences.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is our opportunity to come together to put a spotlight on this critical issue facing all of our countries,” said Minister of State Wong. “Canada stands with the international community in its efforts to raise awareness, to more effectively measure the prevalence and to legislate tougher penalties for those who abuse seniors.”
Minister Wong gave opening remarks today at the 7th World Conference and Commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, hosted by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. Tomorrow, she will provide greetings at the 11th Global Conference on Ageing: “Ageing Connects,” organized by the International Federation on Ageing.
As part of its ongoing commitment to address elder abuse, the Government of Canada continues to play an active role in addressing elder abuse through awareness campaigns, the New Horizons for Seniors Program and recently proposed legislation. The Government of Canada also continues to work with its domestic and international partners to address elder abuse and advance the overall well-being of seniors, taking into consideration the challenges of an aging population.
The Government of Canada is working hard to help improve the lives of seniors on many fronts. These efforts include:
• introducing a new Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) top-up benefit to help Canada’s most vulnerable seniors. This is the largest increase in the GIS for the lowest-income seniors in 25 years. The measure further improves the financial security and well-being of more than 680 000 seniors across Canada. It represents an investment of more than $300 million annually;
• increasing funding to the New Horizons for Seniors Program in 2011 by $5 million for two years, bringing the Program’s annual budget to $45 million. The Program helps seniors use their leadership abilities, energy and skills to benefit communities across Canada;
• providing Canadians with close to $76 billion this year through Canada’s public pension system;
• providing $2.5 billion this fiscal year in additional tax relief to seniors and pensioners through measures such as enabling pension-income splitting and increasing the Age credit;
• providing $400 million over two years under Canada’s Economic Action Plan for the construction of housing units for low-income seniors;
• supporting positive and active ageing through the collaborative Age-Friendly Communities Initiative, Physical Activity Tips for Older Adults and fall-prevention initiatives;
• appointing a Minister of State (Seniors)—someone who can bring the concerns of older Canadians to the Cabinet table and stand up on their behalf;
• establishing October 1 as National Seniors Day to recognize the significant and ongoing contributions seniors make to families, communities, workplaces and society; and
• ongoing action to address elder abuse including: awareness campaigns, the New Horizons for Seniors Program, which includes projects to raise awareness of elder abuse, and recently proposed legislation that would help ensure consistently tough penalties for offences involving abuse of elderly persons.
Find out more
For more information on what the Government of Canada is doing for seniors, visit www.seniors.gc.ca.
SOURCE: TheNorthumberlandandView, Canada
_____________________________________
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Search LABELS for More Resources
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