Vulnerability of Elder/Dependent Adults

The elder person/dependent adult is at special risk. Health issues such as stroke, senile dementia, loss of eyesight or hearing and other common age related illnesses or disabilities make a person unable to fend off physical or emotional abuse. Loneliness, depression and the death of a spouse also contribute to putting an elderly person at risk for abuse. In some instances, the elder may not comprehend the situation as abusive. The elder victim may fear retaliation from the abuser or unwanted consequences if the abuser is taken away.

The majority of abuse victims are women aged 75 and older. They usually live with their abuser or otherwise are dependent for care and assistance. The abuser is most often related to the victim, frequently an adult child or spouse. The abuser may have alcohol or drug addictions, have emotional or chronic psychiatric problems and may be emotionally or financially dependent on the elder. Should the abuser be a relative or a long-time friend of the victim, reporting the abuse causes the elder to feel shame and embarrassment; and therefore, the elder does not report and often denies the abuse.

As professionals, you see the elderly in limited circumstances and may not know the entire situation. But you are also the person who has a unique opportunity to witness or discover abusive situations. If you suspect abuse in any form, reporting your suspicions, along with any facts you may have, is vital. Your involvement is important and may be mandatory by law. New laws are now in place which can, as never before, be used to recover losses for elder abuse victims and for prosecution of the abusers. Early detection, reporting and intervention can save a life or avoid financial ruin.