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Note: This article might be difficult to read for some viewers. Discretion is advised.
One of the saddest things that plague many countries today is the abuse of elderly people by family, friends, private nurses and care homes. The Covid-19 pandemic only served to highlight an existing problem that was made worse by the virus. According to the World Health Organization, Covid-related stress has contributed to the continued abuse of vulnerable people.
Not only has the virus and the measures required such as lockdown laws exacerbated the effects of loneliness and isolation but an Age UK study (2019) found that in England and Wales, over 280,000 elderly citizens aged between 60 and 74 suffered domestic abuse, which has increased during the pandemic.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse
You can help anyone, young or old, if you suspect that abuse is being perpetrated upon their person, mind or means. This includes physical and sexual abuse or exploitation, verbal and psychological bullying and financial abuse such as unlawful diversion of funds or direct stealing of money: physical cash and via digital bank transfer.
In most cases an elderly person is abused by a caregiver, family member or care home nurse(s) and you can take a stand for justice by notifying the relevant people. In a care home setting, you should inform the administration as well as adult protective services and should a family member be responsible then you can call the police since abuse is a serious criminal offence.
Common Things to Look Out For
The signs and symptoms of abuse of any kind aren’t always apparent and you can look for some common issues associated with physical, mental, sexual and financial abuse. Unexplained cuts and bruises are common with physical abuse while becoming withdrawn and depressed is common with mental abuse. Sexual abuse indicators could include sexually transmitted infections, injured genitals and trouble walking.
The actions of those around the victim can also be just as revealing as the elder themselves and some things to look out for include the victim becoming agitated when a certain person is near them, a caregiver having undue access to the victim’s finances, a particular person seemingly speaking for the victim or inappropriate touching of the elder.
How You Can Get Involved in Welfare
Apart from identifying and reporting abuse of the elderly, which is an excellent start, you can further help victims of abuse and help prevent abuse before it happens. In situations where a loved one has been abused either by another family member or a professional service, you can become more involved with their life by helping them with chores and spending some time.
Abuse prevention isn’t so easy but you can help stop it before it happens. Should a family member who wasn’t previously close with your elderly friend or relative suddenly try to integrate themselves into their life then this could be an early indicator of planned abuse. However, some abuse stems from becoming overwhelmed and you could offer support to a caregiver and engage with them and the elderly patient by talking, offering help and taking part in community activities.
