As the number and percentage of individuals 65 and over has increased in this country, so has the incidence of elder abuse. Unfortunately, the prevalence and nature of this growing problem generally remains hidden from public view. It is imperative that we become more aware of the many issues surrounding this sensitive topic. While there are no exact statistics on elder abuse, it is estimated that 90,000 cases are reported to Adult Protective Services (APS) in California annually, and for every reported case, five to seven go unreported.
Elder abuse tends to take place where the senior lives, most often in the home where abusers are apt to be adult children, other family members such as grandchildren, spouses/partners, or caregivers. The abuse can take on many forms including:
• Physical Abuse – Use of physical force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain or impairment
• Sexual Abuse – Non-consensual sexual acts of any kind
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse – Infliction of anguish, pain or distress through verbal or non-verbal act; intimidation; yelling or threats; humiliation; ridicule; habitual blaming or scapegoating; ignoring; isolating from friends and/or activities
• Financial/Material Exploitation – Illegal or improper use of an elder’s funds, property or assets; misuse of an elder’s checks, credit cards or accounts; stealing cash or property; forged signature; investment fraud; phony charities
• Neglect – Refusal or failure to fulfill any part of a person’s obligations or duties to an elderly person. May be active (intentional) or passive (unintentional, based on ignorance or denial)
• Abandonment – Desertion of an elderly person by an individual who has physical custody of the elder, or is assumed to be responsible for his or her care
• Self-Neglect – Behaviors of a senior that threaten his or her own health or safety
If you suspect elder abuse, you can make an anonymous report to Adult Protective Services (APS) by calling 1-800-992-1660 – 24 hours a day/seven days a week. You do not have to have proof that the abuse is occurring. Even if you just suspect that something may be happening, go ahead and make the report. Better safe than sorry!
If you have any questions, or would like additional information on Assisted or Memory Care living options for seniors, please contact Summerhill Villa at 661-254-9933.