Mention the subject of elder abuse at the church barbeque and conversation is guaranteed to dry up. Victims are reluctant to speak out against the perpetrator, be they the spouse, partner, child or caregiver, often because they love them, or they depend on them, or both.

Elder abuse can take many forms, not just the physical. CARP, the Canadian Association for the Fifty Plus, estimates one in ten seniors suffer from some manifestation of elder abuse. Most of us would never tolerate physical abuse, but in some relationships the victim has become so accustomed to the violence that it has become ‘the new normal.’ Or they may believe it’s their fault for having provoked the situation, or that the aberrant behaviour will soon change. That sense of helplessness, in the face of growing dependence, can be overwhelming.

Psychological abuse usually takes the form of verbal put-downs, prolonged harassment or subtle torment. Old grudges, real or perceived, can degenerate into verbal abuse. Financial abuse falls into two categories: that done by strangers (scams and frauds), and that done by family members (eg. theft of a pension cheque, or draining a bank account, or stealing property). Scams and frauds should be reported to the police. To educate yourself or your group about fraud, contact The ABCs of Fraud (454-2267) and request a presentation.

Remember, abuse is not necessarily something done to someone: it can also be something not done. Neglect stems from a lack of respect of the elderly. It is often well-hidden. Self-neglect, when the elderly cease to care for themselves, often occurs when a person’s self-worth and motivation collapse suddenly. Neglect by a caregiver – however well-intentioned – is often a sign that the caregiver is unfortunately no longer able to cope.

The elderly are protected in this province through the Adult Protection Act. In all cases, and even in suspected cases of elder abuse, the police or the Department of Health should be informed. The department provides access to services for vulnerable adults who are victims of abuse and/or neglect.

CARP states “elder abuse must be exposed for the wrong that it is by both society and individuals. Exposure and awareness can reduce incidences of elder abuse so that it will shrivel in the light of public scrutiny, empowering abused individuals to stand up for their rights.” We must move beyond just laying blame: victims and perpetrators must realize that elder abuse is never acceptable and will not be tolerated. For more information about elder abuse, contact the NS Dept. of Seniors (formerly the Seniors’ Secretariat), toll-free, at 1-800-670-0065.

If you suspect a senior is being abused, don’t ignore the signs: discuss the situation with the individual and suggest counselling, resources and support services. Get outside help: call Adult Protection Services at 1-800-225-7225, but if the situation is an emergency, call 911.

Come and meet Alex Handyside at the 50+ Expo at Exhibition Park, Halifax, Friday June 13 & Saturday June 14. He will be at the Serving Seniors Alliance booth (#215 & 217).

Alex Handyside CSA
ScotiaCare Homecare & Caregivers
T: 827-5599
homecare@scotiacare.com www.ScotiaCare.com
Winner of the 2006 Maritime Business Ethics Award. Winner of the 2007 CSA Award of Excellence for services to seniors. Founding member of Serving Seniors Alliance and NS HomeCare Association.
Accredited by the Better Business Bureau of the Maritime Provinces.