Elder abuse can occur in many different ways. Some of the more common forms of elder abuse include financial abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. The elderly are susceptible to these types of abuse anywhere, including in a nursing home facility or even with caregivers and family members.
Financial Abuse
Elders may experience financial abuse in many different forms. One type of financial abuse occurs when a family member or caretaker attempts to take over control of the elderly person’s finances, for their own financial gain. Another type of financial abuse involves a family member or caretaker setting out to have the elder change their will to give that person a more favorable financial outcome when the elder passes away.
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves the use of purposeful and intentional force against an elderly individual. This type of abuse can include hitting, punching, and choking, as well as the inappropriate use of drugs and restraints.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse can cause elderly individuals significant distress. Some common forms of emotional abuse include threats and intimidation, isolation, humiliation, and terrorizing the elderly person.
Sexual Abuse
An elderly individual can be a victim of sexual abuse when unwanted sexual contact is forced upon them. Other forms of sexual abuse include forcing them to watch pornography or to get undressed for purposes other than health-care related needs.
Neglect
An elder can become subjected to neglect when a caretaker does not perform their necessary duties. Whether or not an elderly person is suffering from neglect will depend on their individual care taking needs.
It is important to be aware of the different types of elder abuse and neglect that an elderly individual may experience. Knowing what kind of abuse to be aware of can help you stop an elderly person in your life from suffering these forms of abuse.