Abuse And Neglect Among The Elderly

Abuse and neglect amongst the elderly population is considered a social issue due to the fact that the elderly endure a lot of complications as they age. “Growing old means the deterioration of physical and mental mechanisms that are necessary for effective performances in society” ( Smith-Ruiz,1985, pg. 353). As time passes, elders require more assistance but all assistance is not the most beneficial for them resulting in harm or mistreatment. There is a wide range of abuse involving emotional abuse, verbal and non verbal abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, physical abuse, and financial abuse as well as caregiver neglect. Abuse is often times long-term and individuals who are physically disabled or mentally ill are more prone to abuse.
Emotional abuse is also common. Emotional pain and distress results from belittling, controlling behavior, and mimicking. Yelling, using profanity, or disrespecting the elderly in a humiliating tone of voice is also considered abuse. Nonverbal psychological abuse involves ignoring the person, isolating them from friends or activities, and terrorizing the person. Neglect is defined as the refusal to fulfill any obligated duties to an elderly person also failure to carry out any financial responsibilities needed to properly provide care for the person. Active neglect refers to the caregiver intentionally refusing
In some cases stubborn elders may not want care from others and this is categorized as self neglect. The elders are aware of their health issues and understand the severeness of the consequences if they do not allow assistance.
Neglect from a family member or care provider can lead the elderly person into malnutrition and weight loss. Neglect generally means the refusal of basic needs such as water, food, medication, clothing, and personal hygiene. This results in bed sores, unsanitary living conditions, poor hygiene, and untreated health issues. Agnes, 78 years old, lost her husband last year. Because of some physical limitations as a result of arthritis and declining cognitive abilities, Agnes moved in with her 55-year-old daughter, Emily. The situation is difficult for all of them. Sometimes Emily feels as if she's at the end of her rope, caring for her mother, worrying about her college-age son and her husband, who is about to be forced into early retirement. Emily has caught herself calling her mother names and accusing her mother of ruining her life. Recently, she lost her temper and slapped her mother. In addition to feeling frightened and isolated, Agnes feels trapped and worthless. (“Elder Abuse and