Elder Abuse - How and Why it Happens

Abuse of the elderly is often reported in the news. The sickening scenes and graphic details are enought to make you turn away. Abuse by caregivers at a nursing home or care center makes the news.

But what about the abuse that isn't reported. Elderly are frequently abused and even neglected by those who should care the most. Family members have been charged with abuse, neglect, and endangerment of their "supposed" loved ones. There was a story on the news of an elderly man who was kept int eh basement for years by his elderly wife. Some relatives will beat the person. But it doesn't have to be a family member, outside a clinical setting, it can be the gardner, the home health aide, or the person delivering hot meals.

A little known fact is that elderly abuse is as prevelent as child abuse. But it is often discounted as seneility, confusion, drug interaction when the elderly person tries to tell someone. For those who don't tell, we don't see it simply because we aren't looking for it. After all it's hard to imagine your 80 year old mother as a victim of rape. But you must remember that abuse isn't about physical attraction, it's about power, control, and violence.

There are resources and information for those who believe their loved one or someone they know has or is experiencing abuse. The internet is a great tool to find out more, but if you cannot find what you need on the web, speak to your doctor or County Social Worker.

Think of all you do before you place your children into the care of others. Shouldn't you take the same care with your elderly loved ones?