Who are the abusers of older adults?
June 15, 2022
Global Korean Post
Today is to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
The terms “elder abuse” and “senior abuse” are often used to describe the experience of older adults who are abused, usually by someone they know and often by someone they care about. It is abuse whenever someone limits or controls the rights and freedoms of an older adult.
The older adult is unable to freely make choices because they are afraid of being humiliated, hurt, left alone, or of the relationship ending. Abuse causes harm to an older adult.
Abuse of older adults often occurs within the family, by adult children or grandchildren. However, other relatives, friends, neighbours, paid or unpaid caregivers, landlords, financial advisors or any individual in a position of power, trust or authority can also be abusive. When a spouse is abusive, it is called domestic violence.
Abuse can happen at any age to any person. There are a number of risk factors that may cause concern:
- Isolation —physical, social or cultural
- History of domestic violence
- Shared living situations
- Dependency on an older adult (for shelter or financial help)
- Addiction issues
- Depression and other mental health issues
- Cognitive impairment
Raising awareness and recognizing the signs of elder abuse are the first steps to help prevent and end it.
Here are some common signs to look for:
- a noticeable change in behaviour, fear, anxiety or depression, around a family member, friend or care provider;
- unexplained physical injuries;
- poor nutrition or hygiene;
- improper use of medication; or
- a sudden drop in cash flow or sudden changes to legal documents.
