POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 61 We have a shared responsibility to promote respect for all members of our society. Everyone has a role to play. When people have trouble in their relationships, you may be the neighbour, friend or family member who can make a positive difference. If you are concerned that an older adult in your life may be experiencing abuse, this brochure can help you to recognize the warning signs so that you can help. We also need to recognize the ways our society discriminates against older adults. “Ageism” is the term that describes attitudes and beliefs that cause people to treat older adults as if they were less important or less valued because they are older. These attitudes are a factor in abusive situations because they allow people to believe that they have the right to ignore, harm or control an older adult. What Is Abuse of Older Adults? The terms “elder abuse” or “senior abuse” are often used to describe the experience of older adults who are abused, usually by someone they know and often by someone they care about. It is abuse whenever someone limits or controls the rights and freedoms of an older adult.The older adult is unable to freely make choices because they are afraid of being humiliated, hurt, left alone or, of the relationship ending.Abuse causes harm to an older adult. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines abuse of older adults as “a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.” When a spouse is abusive, it is called domestic violence. When abuse is used to maintain power and control over a spouse, it is called coercive control.Women are most often the victims of coercive control and are most likely to be killed by a male partner. Who Are the Abusers of Older Adults? Abuse of older adults often occurs within the family, by adult children or grandchildren. However, other relatives, friends, neighbours, paid or unpaid caregivers, landlords, financial advisors or any individual in a position of power, trust or authority can also be abusive.When a spouse is abusive, it is called domestic violence or intimate partner violence. Who Is at Risk? I never thought it would happen to me.Abuse can happen at any age to any person.There are a number of risk factors that may cause concern: • Isolation - physical, social or cultural • History of domestic violence • Shared living situations • Dependency on an older adult (for shelter or financial help) • Addiction issues • Depression and other mental health issues • Cognitive impairment • Females are more at risk for abuse HowYou Can Recognize Abuse Abuse happens in different ways, and usually becomes worse without help of some kind. Older adults often experience more than one form of abuse. All abuse is serious and causes harm. 1. Financial Abuse “My granddaughter moved in with me some time ago. I asked her to leave because she used my bank card to take money from my account a couple of times. She said she has no place to go. I feel guilty and let her stay, but I am afraid she will do it again.” “My younger sister lives with me since her husband died. I have worked hard and saved money for many years. She has threatened to end our relationship if I don’t write a new will that leaves all of my savings to her.” “Last week, my son-in-law asked me to sign a power of attorney so that he could help with my affairs. He disagrees with the way I manage my money, and I have heard him tell my daughter that he thinks I am getting senile. I am a little afraid of him.” How can you identify and help older adults at risk continued
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