What is elder Abuse?

Domestic elder abuse generally refers to any of several forms of maltreatment of an older person by someone who has a special relationship with the elder (e.g., a spouse, a sibling, a child, a friend, or a caregiver in the older person's own home or in the home of a caregiver.) Elders and vulnerable adults may fear what will happen if they seek help. Some may be too embarrassed to take action against family members.

Social isolation and mental impairment (such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease) are two factors that may make an older person more vulnerable to abuse. But, in some situations, studies show that living with someone else (a caregiver or a friend) may increase the chances for abuse to occur. A history of domestic violence may also make a senior more susceptible to abuse.

Abusers of older adults are both women and men. Family members are more often the abusers than any other group. For several years, data showed that adult children were the most common abusers of family members; recent information indicates spouses are the most common perpetrators when state data concerning elders and vulnerable adults is combined.

The bottom line is that elder abuse is a family issue. As far as the types of abuse are concerned, neglect is the most common type of abuse identified.

Elder and vulnerable adult abuse comes in many forms and is not limited to one form of abuse. Elder abuse may include:

Physical Abuse, Threats
Victims are kicked, punched, slapped, beaten, even raped.
Pain, injury or death may result.

Verbal Abuse
Threats or degrading language may be used
Emotional Abuse
May be in the form of words or actions designed to humiliate intimidate, confuse, or frighten an elderly or disabled person.
Exploitation
Abusers may steal or mismanage money. Resources may illegally or improperly used. Elders may be forced to sign a will or turn over assets.

While one sign does not necessarily indicate abuse, some tell-tale signs that there could be a problem are:

Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, and burns may be an indication of physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.
Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, a sudden change in alertness, and unusual depression may be indicators of emotional abuse.
Bruises around the breasts or genital area can occur from sexual abuse.
Sudden changes in financial situations may be the result of exploitation.
Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss are indicators of possible neglect.
Behavior such as belittling, threats, and other uses of power and control by spouses are indicators of verbal or emotional abuse.
Strained or tense relationships, frequent arguments between the caregiver and elderly person are also signs.

Most important is to be alert. The suffering is often in silence. If you notice changes in personality or behavior, you should start to question what is going on.

Each one of us has a responsibility to keep vulnerable elders safe from harm. The laws in most states require helping professions in the front lines -- such as doctors and home health providers -- to report suspected abuse or neglect. These professionals are called mandated reporters. Under the laws of eight states, "any person" is required to report a suspicion of mistreatment.

Call the police or 9-1-1 immediately if someone you know is in immediate, life-threatening danger.

If the danger is not immediate, but you suspect that abuse has occurred or is occurring, please tell someone. Relay your concerns to the local adult protective services, long-term care ombudsman, or police.

If you have been the victim of abuse, exploitation, or neglect, you are not alone. Many people care and can help. Please tell your doctor, a friend, or a family member you trust, or call the Eldercare Locator help line immediately.

You can reach the Eldercare Locator by telephone at 1-800-677-1116. Specially trained operators will refer you to a local agency that can help. The Eldercare Locator is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

Educating seniors, professionals, caregivers, and the public on abuse is critical to prevention. On an individual level, some simple but vital steps to reduce the risk:

Take care of your health.
Seek professional help for drug, alcohol, and depression concerns, and urge family members to get help for these problems.
Attend support groups for spouses and learn about domestic violence services.
Plan for your own future. With a power of attorney or a living will, health care decisions can be addressed to avoid confusion and family problems, should you become incapacitated. Seek independent advice from someone you trust before signing any documents.
Stay active in the community and connected with friends and family. This will decrease social isolation, which has been connected to elder abuse.
Know your rights. If you engage the services of a paid or family caregiver, you have the right to voice your preferences and concerns. If you live in a nursing home or board and care home, call your Long Term Care Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is your advocate and has the power to intervene.

All states have adult protective and long-term care ombudsman programs, family care supports, and home and community care services that can help older adults with activities of daily living. Call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 for information and referrals on services in your area.

At the national level, Elder Justice Act legislation has recently been proposed to provide federal leadership to help reduce elder abuse.

Community collaborations, meanwhile, are playing an increasingly important role in educating the public and professionals. In recent years, State Attorneys General offices and law enforcement have stepped up efforts to prosecute. On the front lines, "multidisciplinary teams" (social workers, nurses, lawyers, etc.) have begun to be created to better target interventions.

Elder abuse coalitions also are working to make life safer for vulnerable elders and are an important step forward in the fight against elder abuse. Find out how you can be involved.

Knowing the warning signs of abuse is a first step toward protecting elders. Some specifictips: Become a community "sentinel" - Keep a watchful eye out for loved ones, friends, or neighbors who may be vulnerable. Speak up if you have concerns. That means even if you are not sure. You have a right to question. Be involved. Volunteer with older adults in your community. Support initiatives to increase and strengthen adult protective services in your state.

For more information visit the National Center on Elder Abuse web site.

Senior Women's Advocacy

Many older women have endured abuse for years. SDV&SAS provides services designed to meet an older woman's needs. Advocates help her develop a safety plan and overcome barriers that have kept her isolated.

Skagit DV&SAS
24-HOUR HOTLINE

WA STATE HOTLINE

NATIONAL HOTLINE

1-800-726-6010

1-800-562-6025

1-800-799-SAFE