Let’s look at what we know

Let’s look at what we know.
So what is older adult abuse? When you consider the definition of Older Adult Abuse, notice that the definition includes ‘by a person in a position of trust’. Though we care about scams, we don’t include them in our definition. Here are some examples of Abuse that are common. Sometimes different types of abuse occur together.

Physical: In addition to the obvious – hitting slapping, pushing - physical abuse may include over-medication, or inappropriate restraint that involves tying up the older person or locking them in a room. Some type of physical restraint may be necessary in cases of dementia where wandering is a concern, but even appropriate restraint can be misused. When in doubt, ask a professional who works with dementia victims. Physical force may have a more serious impact on an older person than on someone younger;

Sexual: Some in the field believe many cases of sexual abuse go undetected because society and professionals fail to recognize sexual abuse in older persons – perhaps due to misperception that the elderly are not likely targets for sexual abuse.

Psychological or emotional abuse: includes frightening, humiliating, intimidating, isolating, or infantilizing behaviours. Often takes the form of threatening the older person with nursing home placement, and isolating the older person. The same behaviours may be more damaging to one person than another – psychological abuse affects a person’s health and self worth, and can result in illness, depression, or suicide. Psychological abuse reduces likelihood of seeking help. Spiritual abuse is the distortion of a religious message that is meant to strengthen and empower people. It includes anything that diminishes the true value of the person or distorts the image of a loving God. It can also occur when the faith community forces its members to give money or change their wills in its favour using manipulation or threats.

Financial abuse: may range from keeping the change when shopping for grandma to complicated types of extortion. Financial abuse is particularly devastating for older persons because of the limited opportunity to recuperate the funds. A recent study in BC found that 1 in 12 older adults had been financially abused, losing on average, $20,000 each.

Neglect: may be intentional (e.g when providing care only for $ reasons or begrudgingly), or unintentional (e.g. incapable due to lack of skill, or own problems)

Different types of abuse occur together.

If you or someone you know needs help - please call someone.
In the Peterborough, Ontario, area you can Call 705-742-7778

Our Web Site http://www.olderadultabuse.org/

For some very good examples of Abuse Look at these links at YouTube - Presented and Produced by ONPEA

Physical Abuse - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFIXxhyUWng
Financial Abuse - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeKOy71jmJY&mode=related&search=
Verbal Abuse - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mmd7qveoAk8&mode=related&search