What is Elder Abuse?
When a person over the age of 60 is harmed or put at risk of severe harm by a knowing, intentional, or neglectful act by a caretaker or any other individual, it is referred to as elder abuse. The abuse could be physical, emotional, or psychological. Unfortunately, many elders endure this punishment from some of their own family members. Elder abuse and these claims are difficult to handle without the help of a legal professional who has experience working with these types of cases. The abuse is often hidden and difficult to notice unless you know what signs to look for. If you think your loved one is a victim of elder abuse or neglect, they may exhibit one or more of the following behaviors:- Feelings of fear, anxiety, hopelessness, helplessness, or weakness
- Increasing depression, withdrawal, or passiveness
- Avoiding eye contact or verbal communication with caregivers
- Cowering when caregivers are present
- Confusing or contradictory statements not related to health issues
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Not talking openly about certain situations
- Avoiding family members or friends
What is Mental Trauma?
Any deeply disturbing or distressing event can cause an individual to suffer from what is known as mental trauma. No one is immune to trauma as it can affect people of all ages, especially the elderly who often feel powerless and helpless in these situations. Some common symptoms of mental trauma include:- Depression
- Anxiety
- Fear
- Anger
- Sadness
- Shame
- Insomnia
- Nightmares
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Digestive issues
- Emotional outbursts
- Anti-social behavior
Types of Abuse Known to Cause Mental Trauma
Not all forms of abuse are physical or violent in nature. There are many other forms of abuse that can be equally traumatic, such as:- Psychological or emotional abuse – Yelling, humiliating, shaming, and/or verbal threats are all damaging types of psychological and/or emotional abuse that can result in long-term mental trauma. Caregivers and medical professionals have been known to lose their patience and take their frustrations out on the elderly, especially behind closed doors.
- Physical abuse – Slapping, punching, and/or kicking are just some forms of physical abuse elders have been known to encounter in an abusive situation. Even threatening an elder with physical violence can be considered abuse.
- Sexual abuse – When a perpetrator forces the victim to perform unwanted sexual acts such as touching, forcing sexual contact or intercourse, it is classified as sexual abuse. Victims could suffer physical damage and extreme mental trauma that may cause them to avoid all social contact whatsoever, even from the people they love.
- Spiritual abuse – Preventing elders the right to worship, forcing them to believe in a cult, and/or disparaging their religion are all forms of spiritual abuse. Victims who are not allowed to practice their religious beliefs can often feel emotional distress and hopelessness that can deteriorate mental health.
