Caring for an aging parent, grandparent or loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. You want them to feel safe, respected and well cared for. But sometimes, older adults face mistreatment, often from those who are supposed to help them. This is called elder abuse and it happens more often than you might think.
According to the National Council on Aging, elder abuse happens to about 1 in 5 Americans aged 60 and older, yet only 1 in 24 cases are reported. The best way to stop elder abuse is to prevent it from ever happening.
We spoke with Jennifer Lawless, the director of the Banner Olive Branch Senior Center, to learn about the types of elder abuse and ways to keep a loved one safe.
What is elder abuse?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult.
“Elder abuse can happen to anyone and may even happen at the hands of a caregiver or trusted individual,” Lawless said. “Abuse can also happen in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.”
All types of elder abuse can lead to physical and emotional harm and even death.
Types of abuse in older adults
The most common types of elder abuse include:
- Physical abuse: Hitting, pushing or causing any pain
- Emotional abuse: Yelling, threatening or making someone feel bad
- Financial abuse: Stealing money, tricking someone into giving money or misusing finances
- Sexual abuse: Any unwanted sexual contact
- Neglect: Not providing food, medicine or proper care
Who is at risk for elder abuse?
Any older adult can experience abuse but some are at higher risk.
“Older adults who are having changes in their health are often at the same time becoming more socially isolated,” Lawless said. “Social isolation and mental and/or physical impairment increase the risk.”
Studies show that nearly half of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia have experienced abuse or neglect. Interpersonal violence also occurs at higher rates among adults with disabilities.
You may also be more at risk for elder abuse if you have depression or mental health conditions or if you live with a caregiver who is overwhelmed or stressed.
“Perpetrators may include children, family members and friends as well as staff at nursing homes, assisted living and even service people like hairdressers or dog walkers,” Lawless said.
Characteristics of some abusers may include:
- Prior criminal record
- Drug or alcohol-related issues
- No means of support aside from victim’s housing, pension or social security checks
- May not want the victim interviewed or alone and may appear controlling
Signs of elder abuse
It’s important to notice the warning signs of abuse in older adults. Here are things to look for:
Physical signs
- Bruises, burns or broken bones with no apparent cause
- Sudden weight loss or dehydration
- Dirty clothes, bad hygiene or untreated medical issues
- Bedsores from not being moved properly
Emotional and behavioral signs
- Increased fear, anxiety or depression
- Avoiding certain people or acting nervous around a caregiver
- Becoming quiet, withdrawn or upset for no reason
- Seeming confused or acting differently than usual
Financial signs
- Missing money or belongings
- Bills that haven’t been paid, even if the senior should have enough money
- Strange withdrawals from bank accounts
- Fraudulent signatures or financial paperwork
- Sudden changes in will or power of attorney
How to prevent elder abuse
The best way to stop abuse in older adults is to stay involved and take steps to protect your loved ones. Here’s what you can do:
- Learn about elder abuse: Knowing the signs and risk factors of abuse can help you take action when it happens. Share this information with other family members and friends so they know what to look for.
- Stay in touch: Visit or call your loved one often. Use video calls to check in if you can’t be there in person. Regular contact helps you notice changes and makes it harder for abuse to go unnoticed.
- Help them stay social: Loneliness can increase the risk of abuse. Encourage seniors to stay connected with friends, family and community groups. Attending support groups and learning about domestic violence services can also be helpful.
- Be careful when choosing caregivers: If your loved one needs a caregiver, do a background check. Research nursing homes and care agencies before making a decision. Visit often and ask about safety policies.
- Protect their finances: Help seniors manage their money. Set up direct deposits, monitor unusual spending, and ensure their legal documents are in order. Encourage them to avoid giving personal information over the phone or online and periodically review their will. Having their own phone and posting and opening mail can also provide additional security.
- Support family caregivers: Caring for an older adult can be stressful and exhausting. If a family member is the primary caregiver, offer to help. Respite care, support groups and breaks can make a big difference. “Grief before loss support groups can also help caregivers manage their emotions as their loved ones’ abilities change,” Lawless said.
- Encourage personal and legal safeguards: Help seniors take charge of their own future by planning ahead. A power of attorney or a living will can help clarify health care decisions, avoiding confusion and family arguments later. It’s also important to seek independent advice before signing any documents. “If you engage the services of a paid or family caregiver, you have the right to voice your preferences and concerns,” Lawless said. “If you live in a nursing home, call your long-term care ombudsman. The ombudsman is your advocate and can intervene if needed.”
- Promote health and well-being: Encourage your loved ones to take care of their health and seek professional help for concerns like depression and drug or alcohol issues.
What to do if you suspect elder abuse?
If you think someone is being abused, take action right away:
- Talk to your loved one: Ask them privately if they feel safe. Let them know you are there to help.
- Report abuse: If you believe the situation is dangerous or life-threatening, call 911. For other concerns about abuse, contact:
- Adult Protective Services: 1-877-767-2385
- Domestic Violence Hotel Program/Emergency Shelters: 1-844-723-3387
- Get professional help: A health care provider, social worker or elder law attorney can help assess the situation and take steps to protect your loved one.
- Find a safer living situation: If necessary, help your loved one move to a safer place. This may mean changing caregivers or finding a trusted facility.
Takeaway
Elder abuse is a serious issue but you can help stop it. By staying informed, checking in on loved ones and taking action when needed, you can help keep seniors safe. If you ever suspect abuse, don’t wait. Get help right away.
For more information or to report abuse, visit the National Center on Elder Abuse.
