When we talk about elderly abuse, the questions arise – “What is Elderly abuse? How do we recognize it? And what can we do about it?” Lucky for you, this article will answer all your questions.
It is no new information that some adults or even kids treat their old parents or grandparents poorly. Many a times, we come across news that states that an old parent was abandoned by their son Or daughter. 72.4% of the youth feel that the topmost form of abuse they have come across in their experience is ‘Using Abusive Language and talking rudely to an elder’ followed by 43.1%, who feel it is giving the elder ‘the silent treatment, isolation and emotional abuse.’
From ‘disrespect’ and ‘verbal abuse’ to ‘neglect’ and ‘physical violence’, everything comes under elderly abuse. Elders are not only abused by their family members, but also healthcare workers.
This brings the elders of our country at risk, which includes poor physical and mental health of the victim, and mental disorders and alcohol and substance abuse in the abuser. Social isolation of caregivers and older persons, and the ensuing lack of social support, is a significant risk factor for elder abuse by caregivers. Many elderly people are isolated because of loss of physical or mental capacity, or through the loss of friends and family members.
Now that we know what elderly abuse is, how do we stop it? Check-in on older adults who may have few friends and family members. Provide over-burdened caregivers with support such as help from friends, family, or local relief care groups; adult day care programs; counselling; outlets intended to promote emotional well-being.