09 Mar Steps to Prevent Elder Abuse
Photo courtesy of Pexels
Growing old comes with different health issues and loss of cognitive abilities. As people age, they become physically frail and struggle to protect and stand up for themselves. Elder abuse is the mistreatment of an older person, which can occur in different forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual harm, financial exploitation, or neglect of their welfare and basic needs by those entrusted with their care. It is a serious issue and a violation of human rights that can lead to physical injuries and can have long-term psychological and emotional consequences.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around one out of every six elders face abuse each year, and this risk is even higher in places like nursing homes and long-term care facilities. This can be prevented to some extent by following these steps:
1. Recognize the Signs of Elder Abuse
Being aware of the warning signs of elder abuse is the first step in its prevention. If you suspect abuse but aren’t sure, the following are the common signs that you should look for:
- Unusual financial transactions or missing cash or items.
- Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries.
- Withdrawal from social activities or sudden changes in behavior.
- Poor hygiene or signs of malnutrition.
- Fear or hesitation when speaking about a caregiver or family member.
These indicators can alert loved ones or caregivers so they can intervene and take precautions before the situation worsens.
2. Educate and Encourage Proper Communication
Many elders aren’t aware of their rights or can’t speak up due to the fear of retaliation. Educating them about their rights and creating a safe space for them will empower them to stand up for themselves. Following these steps can help accomplish that.
- Teach elders how to detect scams and protect themselves financially.
- Inform them about reporting abuse and elder protection laws that can provide safety.
- Create an environment where they feel heard and respected.
- Checking in regularly and giving the elderly a safe space to have honest and open conversations about their well-being.
- Involve professional help if needed, seek help from social workers, lawyers, or advocacy groups.
3. Take Legal Action Against Elder Abuse
Suppose you suspect abuse in a nursing home. In that case, it is necessary to proceed carefully because confronting staff about the situation might lead to retaliation towards the elderly person, or they might try to cover up their actions. The guardian of the elderly can involve the legal authorities and take the following steps:
- Inform protective agencies: If you think that someone is being mistreated or neglected, you’d want to investigate those abuse claims. For that, you should file a report and contact organizations like Adult Protective Services in your area.
- Contact law enforcement: Authorities can investigate, collect evidence, and take legal action against those responsible. If you observe any signs of physical violence, sexual assault, or financial scam, report it to local law enforcement immediately.
- Hold the management accountable: The care facility needs to take some responsibility. Engage with the facility and address the situation directly to the management so they start an internal investigation and take corrective actions.
- Seek an elder abuse lawyer: An attorney specializing in elder abuse cases can help navigate the process. These lawyers know legal challenges and laws regarding your situation that will help you file lawsuits against the abuser or manager.
Filing lawsuits against the abuser is important because it will:
- Lower the chance of the abuser harming anyone else.
- Compensate elders and their families for financial losses, medical expenses, and hardship.
- Hold those who take advantage of elderly people accountable for their actions.
Endnote
No individual should have to experience violence and abuse. One can take positive steps like educating, promoting social contact, and stepping up for the elderly when they can’t stand up for themselves. Promoting this social attitude that everyone should be safe from any harm inflicted by others around them and taking the proper steps can prevent it from happening.
More information:
The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition.
Some links are sponsored. Products and services are not warranted or endorsed.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third- party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.
Last Updated on March 9, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD