Explaining ABUSE in Elders

Irrespective of age, everyone deserves respect and dignity within our communities. Unfortunately, elder abuse poses a significant challenge to our nation’s commitment to justice for all. The mistreatment of seniors manifests in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. Shockingly, up to 1 in 10 seniors face abuse each year, with the majority of cases going unreported due to various barriers, such as a lack of necessary social supports.

ABDUL SALAM’S STORY (PHYSICAL ABUSE)

Living alone, Abdul Salam sought assistance with daily care. Despite having nurtured his niece Salma as his own daughter, she exploited him for personal gain. Salma, after transferring Abdul Salam’s property and manipulating his bank accounts, resorted to physical abuse. Shoving him, insulting him, and leaving him injured, Salma’s frustration culminated in a police intervention when a neighbor heard Abdul Salam’s cries of pain.

SIGNS OF MISTREATMENT - PHYSICAL ABUSE AND NEGLECT:

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Bruises, especially on the head or torso, shaped like a hand, finger, or thumb.

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Unexplained burns, cuts, sores, or injuries.

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Denying adequate food, water, medications, or necessary assistive devices.

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Lack of basic hygiene and appropriate clothing.

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Home hazards and lack of utilities.

ZUBEEDA’S STORY (PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL ABUSE)

Moving in with her daughter’s family was meant to be a positive change for Zubeeda, but her son-in-law, Sajad, subjected her to verbal abuse and threats when alone. Zubeeda’s withdrawal and emotional distress went unnoticed by her daughter, highlighting the insidious nature of psychological abuse.

SIGNS OF MISTREATMENT - EMOTIONAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE:

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Verbal abuse, threats, and humiliation.

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Isolation from friends and activities.

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Emotional withdrawal and reluctance to speak.

MUGHALI’S STORY (FINANCIAL ABUSE)

Riyaz, Mughali’s grandson, exploited her trust by misusing her pension. Offering to run errands, Riyaz pocketed the difference instead of depositing it in Mughali’s account, depleting her finances without her knowledge.

Signs of Mistreatment - Financial Abuse/Exploitation:

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Unusual spending or withdrawals.

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Frequent purchases of inappropriate items.

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Unpaid bills and utilities being turned off.

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The presence of a new “best friend” taking advantage of the senior’s generosity.

INTERVENTIONS:

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Medical Assistance: Address physical injuries and ensure the victim’s health.

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Education: Inform victims about abuse, available options, and help them devise safety plans.

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Psychological Support: Offer short-term or long-term psychotherapy for victims and possibly family members to address trauma and depression.

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Law Enforcement and Legal Interventions: Pursue legal actions, including arrests, restraining orders, and protection of assets.

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Alternative Housing: Consider sheltered senior housing or placement in a nursing home.

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Referral to Support Services: Connect victims with basic support services, such as transportation and food assistance, to reduce social isolation.
Recognizing the signs and intervening appropriately are crucial steps in combating elder abuse and ensuring the well-being of our senior citizens.

Dr Showkat Rashid Wani is a Senior Coordinator, Directorate of Distance Education, University of Kashmir