What You Must Know about the Different Types of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is a growing problem in the United States. Every year, thousands of elders are abused, neglected, or exploited. Elder abuse can take many forms, and it’s important to be aware of the different types of elder abuse in order to protect your loved ones.

Physical Abuse

Elder abuse is a very serious problem that can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. Unfortunately, elder abuse is often under-reported and under-recognized. One type of elder abuse is physical abuse.

Physical abuse is any physical force that causes injury or harm to an older adult. Physical abuse can include hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, or using other forms of physical force. Physical abuse can also include forcing an older adult to participate in a dangerous activity, such as driving in a dangerous area or operating a piece of machinery.

Physical abuse can have several severe consequences for older adults. Injuries from physical elder abuse can range from minor bruises to broken bones and head injuries. In some cases, physical abuse can even lead to death.

If you suspect that an older adult is being physically abused, it is crucial to get help right away.

Elder Neglect

There are many types of elder abuse, but one of the most common is elder neglect. Elder neglect can take many forms, but it generally refers to the failure of a caregiver to provide the necessary care for the elderly. Neglect can include things like failing to provide adequate food or water, failing to provide essential medical care, or failing to provide adequate shelter.

Elder neglect can often be challenging to spot, as it can be subtle. However, some signs may indicate that an older person is being neglected. These can include sudden weight loss, bed sores, or a sudden decline in personal hygiene. If you suspect an older adult is being neglected, you must reach out to authorities or a professional who can help.

Abandonment

Abandonment is defined as the willful forsaking of an elderly person by someone who has assumed responsibility for their care. It can happen in both institutional and home settings. In some cases, the abuser may simply leave the elderly person alone for long periods of time without providing any food, water, or medical care. In other cases, the abuser may physically move the elderly person to another location without their consent and leave them there.

Abandonment can have serious consequences for the elderly person. They may suffer from dehydration, malnutrition, and exposure to the elements. They may also be at risk for injuries if they are left alone and unable to care for themselves. In some cases, abandonment can even lead to death.

Psychological or Emotional Abuse

One type of elder abuse that people often overlook is psychological or emotional abuse. This type of abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse and can leave lasting emotional scars.

Psychological abuse can involve anything from verbal harassment and threats to more subtle forms of manipulation and control. For example, an abuser may try to control an elder’s finances, social interactions, or living situation. They may also try to undermine the elder’s self-confidence or self-esteem.

Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as psychological abuse, and often the two go hand-in-hand. Emotional abuse can involve anything from yelling and name-calling to threats and intimidation. It can also involve isolating an elder from family and friends or making them feel worthless or invisible.

If you suspect that an elderly loved one is being psychologically or emotionally abused, it’s important to get help right away.

Final Thoughts

Elder abuse is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for the victim. It is important to be aware of the signs of elder abuse and to report any suspicion of abuse to the proper authorities. With the proper support and intervention, elder abuse can be prevented, and the victim can be protected.

Protect your elderly loved ones from the harmful effects of elder abuse with the help of Bossie, Reilly, & Oh. We are personal injury attorneys in Phoenix, Arizona, that aim to hold nursing homes, hospitals, group homes, and assisted living facilities accountable for the abuse and neglect of elders and vulnerable adults. Get in touch with us today!