Raising awareness of elder abuse

Abuse is defined as harming or jeopardizing the health or welfare of seniors. Eighty per cent of abuse or neglect of seniors goes unreported.

Reported statistics in 2004 indicate that adult children were the ‘abusers’ in 38 per cent of the cases, and spouses in 24 per cent of the cases. Older men are more likely to be victimized by children, older women by a spouse.

Elder abuse comes in many forms

Physical violence, emotional intimidation, financial pressuring, theft or misuse of money, and sexual comments or advances are examples. Financial and emotional abuse and neglect are most common. It is a violation of rights to make decisions without consent and neglect. Abuse is a crime.

Getting out of an abusive relationship or situation is very difficult on many levels.

Competent adults have the legal ability to make their own decisions regarding their well-being and their care. They also have the ability to realize the potential consequences of reporting their caretakers. Adults suffering from dementia or mental illness often lack advocates.

Fear things will get worse

As in other abuse cases, seniors do not speak up because they fear the situation will get worse or they may be forced from their home. Some worry what will happen to the abuser if someone comes to investigate. Wondering what others will say and think is also a very real fear.

The stress and worry that older adults have when they feel neglected or abused may present itself as mental confusion. They will feel anxious or have trouble focusing. They may complain of more frequently falling or more long-term pain. You will notice changes in demeanor, social activity and depression.

Abused or neglected adults have a 200 per cent increased risk of an early death. Living in any stressful situation shortens life expectancy by several years on average.

Most often abusers are family members and spouses. Abusers are friends, caregivers, landlords, staff at care facilities or any individual in a position of power, trust and authority.

Countries around the world will be recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15. As our population ages, so does the opportunity to take advantage. If you are a care giver in need of some help and assistance, or if you would like more information or to report elder abuse, call the abuse hotline at 1-877-833-3377, or call the Digby RCMP detachment at 245-2579. Be instrumental in keeping vulnerable adults safe.

Dawn Thomas is seniors’ safety coordinator for the Town and Municipality of Digby