Elder Abuse Types

Learn about the various kinds of senior mistreatment.

Elder abuse is a broad word that refers to any act (or lack of suitable action) that causes damage or anguish to an elderly individual. There is usually an assumption of confidence between the senior and the perpetrator. The senior may depend on the individual for care and support, but instead is ignored. Unfortunately, senior abuse is widespread, and the number of documented instances is likely to be a small portion of the total number of incidents.

The unlawful use of an old person’s property or money is considered financial exploitation. It can also mean faking their name on a paper or coercing an old individual into signing a Deed, Will, or Power of Attorney. Scams and offenses that take advantage of an old person’s diminished consciousness or possible impairment for monetary gain are also called elder abuse.

Medical abuse of an old individual includes the failure to provide medical services as well as the disregard of fundamental care and requirements. The aged are the most dependent on medical personnel, and they are frequently unable to assist themselves. Many elders may require ongoing nursing and medical care, as well as be on numerous medicines. Abuse can also be defined as failing to provide these services or providing the incorrect medication or assistance.

Unfortunately, bodily mistreatment of an elderly person is more prevalent than most people realize. Any action that causes a person harm or suffering is considered physical maltreatment. This includes striking, punching, pounding, pushing, or any other action that makes you feel uneasy. Physical abuse can also include binding a senior down with needless or harsh constraints that restrict mobility. This can result in muscular loss and further muscle deterioration. Physical violence can include anything that causes injuries, swollen eyes, welts, slashes, fractured bones, or other types of trauma.

Any unwelcome physical touch or activity is considered sexual assault. Any form of pestering, groping, attack, or rape falls under this category. Because they are weak, the elderly are easy prey. They may also choose not to disclose an event out of embarrassment or fear of retribution from the accused. Seniors suffering from dementia may be unable to agree or recall the sexual activity.

Elderly people are also subjected to emotional maltreatment. Emotional abuse can include any form of offense, threat, coercion, shame, or pestering. Caregivers must always be gentle and polite to their senior patients. They should not chastise them for things like soiling themselves or being sluggish to respond. Any stress in the caregiver-patient connection can be recognized by emotional anxiety or dread toward specific people, odd behavior, or emotional retreat.

It is difficult to comprehend why anyone would harm an old person, but instances of elder abuse frequently involve a money incentive for the offender. Sometimes the offender is a callous family member attempting to take what is “rightfully” theirs or preventing the ill relative from using their fortune. Other people may attempt to get close to an elderly person by pretending to adore and care for them in order to gain access to the elderly person’s confidential information and money. Businesspeople can also exploit the aged by overcharging or being dishonest in their business practices.

Furthermore, because of their deteriorating health and emotional conditions, the aged are simpler candidates for maltreatment. They frequently suffer from illnesses such as dementia, which can cause them to loose their recollection and thus be exploited. They may also feel lonely or unwelcome, which may heighten their desire for connection, even if it means adhering to a cruel caretaker.