Retirement is a stage in life that many of us look forward to. If you are staying in a retirement community, it is a time when you can pursue new hobbies and interests and socialize with others. It should not be a time when you experience abuse and face distress or harm. Although senior abuse is prevalent in retirement communities, it is poorly understood and often goes unrecognized. Here are six misconceptions about senior abuse that you should know about in Assisted Living in Greer, SC.
Senior Abuse Must Be Physical
Senior abuse can come in many forms beyond physical harm, such as psychological abuse, financial exploitation and even sexual abuse. It’s crucial to observe how paid caregivers treat seniors under their care and to remain vigilant about any changes to your loved one’s emotional and mental state over time. These changes may be subtle and easily overlooked.
Senior Abuse Only Happens in Retirement Communities
While senior abuse is frequently observed in retirement communities, it can also occur in homes and local communities, regardless of financial status or background. Unfortunately, these instances of senior abuse are often perpetrated by family members or paid caregivers.
Senior Abuse Is Not a Big Issue
Contrary to the belief that senior abuse is a minor concern, research conducted by the 2010 National Elder Mistreatment Study shows that 10 percent of seniors in the United States have experienced some form of abuse. Senior abuse is a pressing issue, similar to child abuse and domestic violence, that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this problem may lead to higher incidences of critical illnesses, detrimental effects on mental health and even death. Although some may think that seniors are less deserving of attention, the issue of senior abuse cannot be swept under the rug given the growing number of older adults in our population.
Senior Abuse Is Mainly Caused by Caregiver Stress
Although caregiver stress can be a contributing factor to senior abuse, it’s not entirely accurate to claim that it’s the main cause. While caring for seniors can be demanding and exhausting, the majority of paid caregivers need to rely on their jobs to make a living. Often, other factors, such as childhood trauma or financial difficulties, may also contribute to senior abuse.
Senior Abuse Is Always Reported When It Happens
According to experts, seniors usually choose not to tell anyone when they have suffered from abuse as they may be afraid of causing trouble for a family member or facing the prospect of being separated from their loved ones. Some seniors may also feel embarrassed or ashamed of being a victim and thus avoid reporting the abuse. In some cases, abusers may even threaten to harm the victim further if they come forward with what has happened.
Senior Abuse Only Happens to Uneducated Seniors
Older adults from all backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses are vulnerable to financial abuse. Scammers or con artists use various methods, such as telephone and e-commerce scams, to steal critical financial information like Social Security numbers and credit card details. Often, they prey on the emotions and trusting nature of seniors rather than their level of education or cognitive abilities.
