Elder Abuse: Typically Trusting and Polite, the "Handshake Generation" is New Mark for Abuse

Based on federal statistics, nearly 800,000 "elders" fall victim to some type of "abuse" each year. Statisticians estimate this number will hit a staggering high as Baby Boomers gray and demographics shift, causing this populus to become dependent on others for some portion of daily living activities.

Most cases of senior misuse today go unreported because victims are ashamed or unable/uninformed as to how to remedy this. Some are fearful of what may happened if they do seek assist and witnesses are often humanly wary to get involved in what seems to be "family laundry".

It takes courage, knowledge and assertive effort to correct the mistreatment of senior adults. Recognizing the tell-tale signs of elder abuse can be first line intervention towards correcting it. Remember, it is better to err on the side of caution vs. not reporting it and having a situation escalate to trauma. Abuse statistically will escalate if there is no intervention.

Physical appearance warning signs may include uncombed, matter hair; poor, overall body hygiene; malnourished or dehydrated; unexplained, repetitive bruises, welts, injuries; and untreated medical conditions to name a few. Many victims choose silence to protect the abuser from consequences; are too embarrassed to admit what is happening to them. Intervention by a caring outsider can often give the elder his health and dignity back.

Behavioral/Isolation Ploys: Have family or care giving staff restricted the elder's contact with close others? Does the senior hesitate to talk freely and spontaneously? Pay attention to shows of helpless or angry actions that are squelched with stern words from an abuser. Isolation is accomplished through a systematic exclusion of all real outside contacts. Much like a prison of war, the victim ultimately turns pawn and trusts/does whatever the abuser requests.