Elder abuse is one of the worst things that can happen to your elderly loved one. They’re often unable to fight back against the abuse, and they may be worried about speaking up in fear that they will be harmed or face further trouble.
The elderly often face a higher risk of abuse and prolonged abuse for a few reasons. These include:
- Mental health concerns, which make it difficult for the elderly person to understand the situation or be taken seriously by others
- Frailty or weakness, which means that they cannot fight back and may fear repercussions for doing so
- Isolation, so they have no one to turn to for help
- Overmedication, which makes it impossible for the victim to speak out
Elder abuse has no place in nursing homes or other facilities, but it still happens. Some types that occur include:
- Negligence
- Physical abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Medical abuse (over or under medicating purposefully)
- Financial abuse
- Emotional abuse
Regardless of a person’s age, they should never have to go through these difficulties. The elderly are particularly vulnerable and rely on others to care for them. They should not have to worry about those assigned to care for them taking advantage of them in their most difficult times.
Our site has more on elder abuse and how you can speak out if it’s affecting you or your family. No elder deserves to be treated with the disrespect or negligence shown in many elder abuse cases. You can help your loved one get the help they need and the care they deserve in a safe facility.