Although
it might be easier in small towns, these days it is harder to stay involved and
connected to our communities as we age. As a result, older people are more
likely to experience social isolation - which increases the likelihood of abuse
and neglect.
Abuse and
neglect is a concern world-wide and can affect older people across all
socioeconomic groups, cultures, and races. And to raise the awareness of elder
abuse throughout the world, June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Okay,
but what actually is elder abuse? It refers to intentional or negligent acts by
a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm to an older person - and can
be exhibited in many ways: neglect or isolation; physical abuse; financial
abuse and exploitation; and emotional or psychological abuse (including verbal abuse
and threats).
Fortunately,
there are warning signs.
For neglect
a lack of basic hygiene, adequate food, or clean and appropriate clothing; home
cluttered and filthy, or without adequate appliances; or a person with dementia
left unsupervised.
For
financial abuse or exploitation, a lack of conveniences the victim could afford;
“voluntarily” giving excessive financial reimbursement/gifts to the caregiver;
caregiver has control of elder’s money but is failing to provide for elder’s
needs; or the vulnerable adult has signed documents such as a Power of Attorney
or a new Will without understanding what it means.
For psychological
or emotional abuse look for unexplained or uncharacteristic changes in behavior;
caregiver doesn’t let anyone in the home; or the caregiver is verbally
aggressive or demeaning, controlling, or uncaring
And for
physical abuse look for inadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts,
sores or burns.
Some
older adults are more susceptible to experiencing abuse or neglect than others.
They include adults eighty and older and older adults who experence dementia, poor
physical health, mental health or substance abuse issues and isolation.
But
you can do something about Elder Abuse. Actually, you already have - because if
you have read this far you know the signs of abuse. Now the next step is to share
this information with your friends, so instances of abuse are better reported
to protect older adults.
You
can also stay in contact with your older neighbors, as I know many of you have,
and listen. If you suspect any abuse, you can report your suspicions to the
Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) office in The Dalles at 541-298-4114.
By
spreading the word and making sure national and community resources are directed
to providing the necessary supports for older adults and reducing the isolation
many older adults face, we can help prevent elder abuse from happening. It’s a
matter of justice for all.
The
Center’s next two trips are coming up. On June 20th there is a trip
to the Portland Grotto with a limit of 12 persons and a cost of $30. And then
on Wednesday, July 11th a trip to the Oregon Zoo in Portland is
scheduled with a limit of 23 and a cost of $46. There is still room, but make
sure you are signed up and paid to reserve your seat on the bus.
The
name of the historical drama which was the top grossing film of 1963, won four
Academy Awards and was renowned for the extramarital affair between its two
costars, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, was Cleopatra. (I received
correct answers from Jim Ayers, Lana Tepfer, Dave Lutgens, Sandy Haechrel and Don
Hansen - this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
Lana
Tepfer reminded me how the Taylor/Burton affair was such a big deal back in THOSE
days which reminded me of how the public’s perception of a political candidate’s
character has also changed.
For
this week’s “Remember When” question who was the four term New York governor
who during his second term as governor married a New York socialite soon after
they both were divorced which raised such a political firestorm it cost him the
Republican presidential nomination in 1964? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com,
leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send a picture of Happy, his second wife,
with their first child.
Well,
it’s been another week, trying to figure out what the heck I’m doing. Until we
meet again, take a chance, and open the door. You never know what’s on the
other side.
“Lonely
is not a feeling when you are alone. Lonely is a feeling when no one cares.” Unknown
No comments:
Post a Comment