The 7 Types Of Elder Abuse
What you need to know about mental health and seniors.
Elder abuse is a serious matter that affects a vulnerable portion of our population. Unfortunately, it's more common than many people realize. The National Council on Aging reports that around 5 million older Americans are abused every year.
Elder abuse has devastating consequences, including declining health, a higher likelihood of being hospitalized, and increased mortality risk. Mental health problems like depression and suicide can arise from abuse, as well as social issues like broken relationships and financial loss. These experiences lead to a loss of independence and lower quality of life.
Every June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). As this day approaches, let it be a reminder that educating ourselves on the different types and signs of elder abuse can help us advocate for our seniors to ensure their safety.
What is elder abuse?
Elder abuse can be characterized as an intentional act or failure to act by a trusted caregiver or individual, which results in harm or a risk of harm to an older adult. The abuse can be perpetrated by caregivers, family members, spouses, con artists, or staff at assisted living or other long-term care facilities.
What types of elder abuse are there?
While the laws and definitions vary by state, elder abuse is broadly defined and may include the following:
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is the most visible form and involves the intentional use of force, resulting in bodily harm or pain to an older person.
Warning signs that a senior might be experiencing physical abuse include:
Unexplained bruises, cuts, fractures, or injuries that are inconsistent with the explanations given.
Restraint marks
Frequent falls
An abrupt change in behavior
Exhibits fear or anxiety or becomes withdrawn in the presence of certain individuals
Neglect
Neglect refers to the failure or omission by caregivers or responsible individuals to provide the necessary care, attention, and support that older adults need to maintain their well-being. It involves depriving essential physical, emotional, or social needs, such as food, hydration, medical care, hygiene, safety, and social interaction.
Signs of neglect can include:
Malnutrition
Dehydration
Poor personal hygiene
Appear unusually unkempt
Untreated medical conditions
Unsanitary living conditions
Lack of appropriate clothing or bedding
Weight loss
Bedsores
Self-Neglect
Self-neglect refers to the behavior of older adults who fail to adequately care for themselves, leading to the deterioration of their physical, emotional, or social well-being. It involves neglecting basic necessities such as food, hygiene, medication, and living conditions, which can result in serious health risks or harm.
Self-neglect often stems from physical or mental impairments, social isolation, depression, or cognitive decline.
Warning signs of self-neglect may include:
Poor personal hygiene
Extreme hoarding or clutter
Unsafe living conditions
Malnutrition
Dehydration
Untreated medical conditions
Isolation
Confusion or disorientation
A significant decline in physical or mental health
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact or activity inflicted upon an older adult. It involves any unwanted sexual activity, including sexual assault, molestation, rape, sexual coercion, exploitation, or harassment. This form of abuse violates older adults' dignity, autonomy, and rights, causing physical and psychological trauma.
Warning signs of sexual abuse can include:
Unexplained sexually transmitted infections
Bruises or injuries in the genital area
Torn or bloody undergarments
Sudden behavioral changes such as withdrawal, fearfulness, or signs of trauma
It's crucial to approach these signs with sensitivity and respect for the individual's privacy.
Emotional/Psychological Abuse
Emotional or psychological abuse is the intentional infliction of emotional or psychological distress on an older adult. It involves behaviors that undermine their self-worth, control, manipulate emotions, or isolate them socially.
Examples include verbal insults, humiliation, intimidation, threats, manipulation, or isolation from friends and family.
Signs of emotional or psychological abuse may include:
Fear, anxiety, or depression
Exhibiting unusual behavior such as rocking, mumbling, or self-soothing movements
Low self-esteemed
Social withdrawal
Unexplained changes in sleep or appetite
Strained or tense relationships with caregivers or family members
Financial Exploitation
Financial exploitation involves the unauthorized or improper use of an older adult's assets or resources for personal gain. Older adults are also the target of many financial scams- promises of goods, services, or monetary benefits that don't exist, were never intended to be provided or were misrepresented.
Warning signs of financial exploitation may include:
Sudden changes in financial circumstances.
Unexplained or significant withdrawals from bank accounts.
Missing valuables.
Forged signatures on legal documents.
A sudden appearance of new "friends" or caretakers showing undue interest in the senior's finances.
Fearful or anxious about money matters or express concern about their financial situation.
Abandonment
Abandonment occurs when a caregiver or responsible individual leaves an older adult without proper support or care. This type of abuse risks their safety, health, and well-being.
Signs that an older adult might be experiencing abandonment include:
Being left without necessary assistance or resources, like food and medication
Lack of access to essential services or medical care
Deserted in a public place
Left isolated for prolonged periods
Confusion
Fearful
Malnutrition
Dehydration
Poor hygiene
Untreated medical conditions
Why are seniors vulnerable to elder abuse?
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to abuse due to mental and physical impairments impacting their ability to protect themselves and seek help. Cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer's and dementia, can diminish an individual's decision-making capacity, making them more susceptible to manipulation and exploitation. They may struggle to recognize abusive behaviors or communicate their experiences effectively.
Physical limitations, such as mobility restrictions or chronic health conditions, can also increase seniors' dependency on others for daily care and assistance. This dependence can create power imbalances and increase the risk of mistreatment by caregivers or trusted individuals.
What to do if you suspect a loved one is a victim of elder abuse?
First and foremost, if your loved one is in immediate danger, you should call 911 or your local police department right away.
If you suspect abuse of any kind is happening or has happened, several resources can help, including:
Virginia Department of Social Services Domestic Violence Program
Virginia Office of Attorney General Key Issues: Seniors/TRIAD
Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services
Final thoughts
With elder abuse affecting one out of every ten older adults, educating seniors, professionals, caregivers, and the public on abuse is essential to prevention.
Benchmark Senior Solutions is a free senior housing advisory service for older adults in Central VA. That means we use our knowledge and expertise to help your loved one find the perfect place to call home based on their medical needs, budget, and lifestyle.
