Elder Abuse

It's a sad fact that older people are vulnerable to ill treatment – especially in societies where poverty, crime and unemployment create hardship and frustration. Older persons are mugged, raped and even killed for their pension, and neglect is on the increase.

Elder abuse can take place in the home, at the hands of spouses, adult children and even grandchildren. It also happens in institutions such as hospitals or nursing homes – and can range from swearing or yelling at the victim to slapping, kicking or shoving them, or stealing their belongings.

Emotional abuse
Other forms of abuse are less obvious but equally damaging. For example: ignoring the elderly person; not giving them enough food or drink; isolating them from friends; humiliating them, leaving them dirty or abandoning them for hours on the toilet. The caregiver might intentionally 'forget' their medication, or administer an overdose.

Financial abuse
Financial abuse occurs not only in impoverished families where an elderly relative's pension may be stolen. Within affluent families, a vulnerable senior may be forced to change his or her Will or hand over power of attorney. Or unnecessary goods and services may be ordered - and paid for out of the elderly person's account.

Identifying elder abuse can be difficult. Bruises and broken bones can easily be the result of a genuine fall. Elderly Alzheimer's patients often believe people are trying to harm them and wrongfully accuse caregivers of ill treatment or theft.

Conversely, a victim may keep quiet about the abuse - especially if they are afraid, or dependent on the abuser for food, shelter and care.

If you suspect an older person is being abused, contact the Chief Social Worker at the Social Development office or police station nearest to where you live.

Alternatively, report the abuse anonymously to HEAL (Halt Elder Abuse line) at 0800 003 081.