Elder Abuse Flashcards
What is elder abuse?
A single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action occurring in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person
When is elder abuse considered to have happened?
When an older person is deliberately harmed, mistreated, exploited, or neglected by someone they know or in whom they put their trust
Where can elder abuse take place?
In persons own home, or in institution
What are the types of elder abuse?
- Physical
- Financial
- Psychological
- Neglect
- Sexual
- Discrimination
- Institutional
What is physical elder abuse?
Infliction of physical force leading to body injury or pain
Give 4 examples of physical elder abuse?
- Slapping
- Restraint
- Burning
- Being handled roughly
What are the indicators of physical elder abuse?
- Unexplained bruises
- Falls
- Minor accidents
What is financial elder abuse?
Using funds without the authority of the owner
Give 4 examples of financial elder abuse?
- Pushy sales person
- Being paid as carer but not providing care
- Selling items without consent, e.g. jewellery
- Abuse of power of attorney for finances
What are the indicators of financial elder abuse?
- Missing money
- Unpaid fills
- Lack of basic things
- Unexplained receipts
What is psychological elder abuse?
Use of mental cruelty or verbal threats to cause discomfort
Give 4 examples of psychological elder abuse?
- Name calling
- Being kept in isolation
- Being threatened
- Blaming
What are the indicators of psychological elder abuse?
- Fearful and nervous
- Harsh tones
- Strained relationship
- Low mood
- Confusion
What is neglect in elder abuse?
Willful failure to assist someone to achieve activities of daily living
Give 2 examples of neglectful elder abuse?
- Withholding food, water, medication, or comfort
- Human needs not provided
What are the indicators of neglectful elder abuse?
- Pressure sores
- Malnourished
- Dehydrated
- Dirty house
- Unkempt appearance
- Unused medication
What is sexual elder abuse?
Being involved directly or indirectly in sexual activity without consent
Give 4 examples of sexual elder abuse?
- Sexual act
- Sexual comments
- Rape
- Being forced to watch pornography
What are the indicators of sexual elder abuse?
- Bruises in genital area
- Fear of being touched
What is discrimination in elder abuse?
Unjust treatment of people on grounds of gender/race/age etc