How to Address the Family When Elder Abuse Is Supected
The problem of elder abuse includes mistreating an elderly individual and can involve physical abuse, financial abuse, neglect, isolation or sexual abuse. Elder abuse may also involve the use of restraints or medications other than those prescribed by a physician. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 2 million older Americans are the victims of elder abuse each year (see reference 1). Many elderly individuals who are physically disabled and/or cognitively impaired suffer abuse in their own homes. The abusers are often family members who act as caregivers. But no matter what the type of abuse, professionals sent to the home to detect and manage alleged cases of abuse must be able to recognize the warning signs in order to deal with the situation in an adequate yet sensitive manner.
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Instructions
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Meet with family members informally in the elderly person's home. Look for red flags, such as signs that a family member may have a drug or alcohol problem. Abusers often have mental problems of their own, or are unemployed and dependent on the older person's income. In many situations, the abuser is a caregiver who fails to provide for the elderly person's basic needs. This constitutes abuse.
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Judge the safety of the home. Observe if the living conditions are unsanitary, or if there are signs that the elderly person has been restrained. Recognize signs of isolation or neglect. When evaluating the situation, it is necessary to investigate any risks to the older person, along with determining her current needs. Take note of whether the person has eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures or mobility aids, if such assistive devices are needed. Be aware of other signs of neglect, such as poor personal hygiene, bedsores, dehydration or malnourishment.
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Pay attention to possible signs of physical and/or mental abuse. Abuse is not always easy to detect unless it is extreme. Be concerned about cuts, bruises, burns or obvious lack of care to injuries or wounds. Note the elderly person's behavior, especially if he seems confused, agitated, depressed or fearful.
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Be open but stick to the facts when discussing your observations and concerns with the alleged victim and her family. Tell the family that there are some issues that concern you. While it is not an excuse, it is important to remember that caregivers can feel isolated, lonely and frustrated as well. However, even though you may offer support to family members and caregivers, your first priority is for the immediate safety and well-being of the elderly individual who may be a victim of abuse.
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Meet with the older person alone. Assure the individual that it is better to ask for help than to try to deal with the situation on his own. Determine whether the person has the mental capacity to make informed decisions about his care. Give him and his family members your contact information before leaving.
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Tips & Warnings
Despite the stories that make the news headlines, statistics show that the majority of elder abuse in this country takes place in the person's own home, not in nursing homes (see reference 1).
