What is Abuse?
Abuse and neglect of older or vulnerable persons is not a new problem. Although identified in our society for many years, abuse of older persons has existed in relative silence, denial and isolation. it is not usually talked about, and difficult to solve unless people recognize the abuse and let someone know it is happening. Many acts of abuse are crimes. Victims of abuse have the right under the law to protection and to services that support their independence and well being.
Abuse can happen to any person, but certain factors can make people more vulnerable. These include mental or physical impairment and/or cultural or language barriers. Abused, older or vulnerable persons are often socially isolated with few friends or family in whom to confide.
Anyone can be an abuser. Abusers can be any family member and are often people who depend on the older person for shelter or financial support. Abusers can also be neighbours, hired caregivers, friends or strangers canvassing or selling products door to door.
Abuse can occur in institutions, like long term care facilities or retirement homes. Abusers in institutions could be frustrated staff members who are not able to do their jobs properly due to lack of training or inadequate staffing levels or other reasons. Other residents or visitors to institutions may also be abusers. In institutions there can be dilemmas associated to abuse of residents due to dementia-related behaviours. These situations still warrant interventions to help protect vulnerable persons from harm.
Abuse or neglect is seldom reported for a variety of reasons.
- Some victims don't know what their rights are or what can be done
- Some think the police or other agencies can't help them
- Some don't speak English
- Some are afraid of what the abuser will do if they report the abuse
- Some fear being placed in an institution
- Some feel ashamed because their family or caregiver is mistreating them
- Some feel embarrassed at having been taken advantage of or of being identified as a victim.
What are the types of abuse or neglect?
You can guard yourself against abuse or neglect by knowing what it is and by taking steps to keep yourself safe and secure.
Physical
- Slapping, hitting, shaking, pinching, punching or other rough handling
- Sexual assault - any unwanted form of sexual activity
- Forced confinement in a room, bed or chair
Financial
- Frauds, forgery, thefts or the dishonest use of a person's money or assets
- Misuse of Power of Attorney or forcing someone to sign a will
- Overcharging or high-pressure sales for services or products
Psychological
- Humiliating, threatening or frightening an older or vulnerable person
- Not allowing an older or vulnerable person to make decisions
- The deliberate social isolation of an older person
- Ignoring the person or treating them like a child
Neglect
- Failing to give someone who is dependent what he or she needs
- The Over/under medication of an older person
- Abandonment or leaving someone in an unsafe or isolated place
Self-Neglect
- The inability of older or vulnerable persons to adequately take care of themselves
What are some of the signs of possible abuse or neglect
- Unexplained injuries or a history of "accidents", poor hygiene, bed sores
- Depression, fear, anxiety, withdrawal or weight loss
- Dehydration or lack of food, clothing, medicine or other necessities of life
- Unnecessary purchases or repairs to house or property
- Unexplained loss or misuse or property items such as banking records or wills