Fighting Elder Abuse Is Everyone’s Moral Duty
As we grow older and more vulnerable, we become more susceptible to the terrors of elder abuse. Any time the elderly members of our society are victimized or harmed, whether it is intentional or due to negligence, it is unacceptable. It’s our collective duty as citizens to understand the problem of elder abuse and to help fight it.
How Common Is Elder Abuse?
According to theNational Council on Aging, “Up to five million older Americans are abused every year, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion.”Studieshave shown that 1 in 10 people above the age of 60 have experienced at least one form of elder abuse.
What Are the Types of Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse is illegal in all 50 states, and each state defines it a little differently. Most, if not all, forms of elder abuse can be categorized into these 5 types:
What are the Signs of Elder Abuse?
The signs of elder abuse can be seen in changes in appearance, mood, behavior, and more. TheNational Institute on Agingwarns people to be on the lookout for these 6 signs of abuse:
What to Do If You Suspect or Witness Elder Abuse
Contact an Attorney:If you suspect elder abuse at a nursing home or other long-term care facility, it can be difficult to get truthful answers from the facility or its employees. An attorney can get the facts and the truth regarding your loved one’s situation. Due to lax inspections and toothless fines, the threat of a lawsuit is often the only motivation for nursing homes to combat elder abuse. In addition to getting the truth, a successful settlement or verdict can help cover the medical costs and pain and suffering, so that your family can move forward with peace of mind. For a free case evaluation regarding nursing home abuse or neglect in Maryland or Washington, D.C., contact Brown & Barron at 410-547-0202 or by clickinghere.
National Center on Elder Abuse: The NCEA is a national elder abuse resource center, with more information and resources on elder abuse prevention, including information what to do if you suspect elder abuse.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: The National Domestic Violence Hotline is a nonprofit organization that offers free, confidential, and compassionate support, crisis intervention information, education, and referral services. The Hotline is available 24 hours a day at1-800-799-SAFE (7233)or TTY1-800-787-3224.
Adult Protective Services (APS): The APS mission is to “ensure the safety and well-being of elders and dependent adults.” Visit their site to donate or for information and a forum for solving the problems the lead to elder and vulnerable adult mistreatment.