Ethics and Elder Abuse

Prevalence and incidence

1 in 60 people 60+ experienced some form of abuse during the past year. Rates of abuse are higher in institutions such as nursing home and long-term care facilities

Physical abuse

the intentional use of physical force that results in acute or chronic illness, bodily injury, physical pain, functional impairment, distress or death

S*xual abuse

forced and/or unwanted sexual interaction with any kind with an older adult

Emotional/psychological abuse

defined as verbal or nonverbal behavior that results in the infliction of anguish, mental pain, fear, or distress, that i perpetrated by a caregiver or other person who stands in a trust relationship to the elder

Infantilize

the act of treating an adult as if he or she were an infant or young adult

neglect

failure by a caregiver or other persons in a trusting relationship to protect an elder from harm or the failure to meet needs for essential medical care, nutrition, hydration, hygiene, clothing, basic ADLs or shelter, which results in a serious risk of compromised health and/or safety, relative to age, health status, and cultural norms

Financial abuse/exploitation

the illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of an older individual’s resource by a caregiver or other person in a trusting relationship, for the benefit of someone other than the individual

Physical signs of elder abuse

dehydration or unusual weight loss

missing daily livings aids

unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts, or sores

unsanitary living conditions and poor hygiene

unattended medical needs

emotional/behavioral signs of elder abuse

• increased fear or anxiety

• isolation from friends or family

• unusual changes in behavior or sleep

  • withdrawal from normal activities

Screening and assessment

While completing the OT process, pay attention to:

• health issues

• caregiver attitudes/problems

• financial issue

• support systems for caregiver and/or client

• observations/perception

Adult protective services

provide a variety of assistance to adults as young as 18 with a disability and to those 65 and older

investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation

conducts investigations and provides services when adults live in the community

educates the public about the prevention of elder abuse

APS services are equitable