People learn more about elder abuse, what to look for

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer

Elder abuse can take several different forms, and there are resources in the community to combat it.

The Claresholm Coordinated Community Response to Elder Abuse gave a public information session at the seniors’ drop-in centre on Thursday, Jan. 24 to outline the types of elder abuse, and the resources available in the community and the region.

Gabrielle Kirk is the coordinator for the coordinated community response to elder abuse.

She explained elder abuse is any action or inaction that jeopardizes the health and well-being of an older adult.

It can take several different forms.

Financial abuse is the misuse of a senior’s funds or property through fraud, trickery, theft or force.

The signs include missing money or belongings; irregularities in bank accounts; and living conditions that do not match income.

This is the most common form, comprising about 70 per cent of cases.

Emotional abuse is actions or statements that cause emotional anguish, fear, diminished self-esteem or dignity.

Signs include depression; anxiety; and change in mood or behaviour.

This is the second most common form of elder abuse.

Physical abuse is an action that causes physical discomfort, pain or injury.

Signs include fractures; burns; bruises; and pulled out hair.

Sexual abuse is unwanted sexual behaviour including sexual comments; exploitive use of pornography; fondling or sexual assault.

Signs include bruising around the breast or genital area; depression; and anxiety.

Medication abuse is the intentional misuse of medications and prescriptions, such as withholding or providing doses that cause bodily harm, sedation, or other adverse effects.

Signs include prescriptions are missing, empty, or unused.

Neglect is the intentional or unintentional failure to provide for the basic needs of someone.

Signs include dehydration; malnutrition; porr hygiene; and bed sores.

Risk factors for elder abuse include social isolation; lack of support; caregiver strain; family dynamics; cognitive impairment, such as dementia; living with the abuser; dependency on others; recent worsening health; and arguing frequently with relatives.

Only about 25 per cent of abuse is reported, Kirk said, and there are several potential barriers to reporting, such as fear; love of the abuser; dementia; medication; shame or guilt; ethno-cultural factors; being unaware of resources; and the acceptance of abuse as normal.

Kirk outlined what can be done if elder abuse is found or suspected, such as: calling 911 if there is an immediate risk; talking to someone you trust; taking legal action; keeping a detailed written record; and not blaming yourself.

If you see elder abuse, Kirk said you should call 911; be supportive; listen carefully; and be respectful.

Kirk also outlined safety planning, which begins as soon as abuse is known.

It includes developing a plan; ensuring someone has access to the person’s finances and medications if they have to leave quickly; have copies of important documents; have a bag packed; check in with the family; complete an advanced care plan; and keep a detailed record of abuse.

Kirk also outlined local resources which include Claresholm and District Family and Community Support Services; health unit/home care; housing authority; medical clinic; mental health clinic; seniors’ drop-in centre; RCMP; Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre; Porcupine Hills Lodge; and Cottonwood Village.

There are also regional resources such as Legal Aid; Office f the Public Guardian; Office of the Public Trustee; Protection for Persons in care; and the Seniors Advocate.

Kirk concluded by saying know the signs, break the silence, and together we can take action against elder abuse.