Abuse Of Elder Abuse

The elders of this generation are more active, more involved, and more independent than in the past. Today, they are living healthier and longer lives. However, even though the population of older Americans rises, so does the occurrence of elder abuse and neglect.
The mistreatment of older adults is found throughout all “socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic groups in the United States and across the globe” (Touhy & Jett, 2012). It can be seen in any kind of family and in many different settings, as well. Because of the heightened awareness of this problem, the United States implemented numerous acts to mandate the crisis. In 1992, United States Congress passed the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act and the Vulnerable Elder Rights Protection Act which mandated a close examination of the problem. In 2001, the National Summit on Elder Abuse in the United States was held to discover ways to protect abused elders (Touhy & Jett, 2012). Since then, a worldwide understanding and awareness has been recognized and countries are looking for a resolution.
Abuse is a deliberate action and will always violate an individual’s rights. Most abuse happens in the home setting, which is where a majority of caregiving occurs. Elder abuse can also take place in institutional settings such as retirement homes, hospice care and long-term care facilities. The majority of abusers are actually spouses or adult children, but is not limited to grandchildren and other members of family or community (Robinson, de Benedictis & Segal, 2013). The most common types of elder mistreatment are physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, or sexual. There are circumstances where financial exploitation and medical abuse are also seen.
Physical abuse is the “no...

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...ican Psychological Association). Education is the probably the foundation for preventing abuse. Since majority of abusive treatment and neglect happens in the home setting, educating the public is crucial in efforts to raise awareness of the problems of older adults and the risk factors for abuse. Respite care is having another individual care for the elder to lessen the stress of caregivers. Social support and contact can alleviate stress and relieving tension by providing an informal respite. Counseling is also a very significant prevention tool for behavioral and personal problems (American Psychological Association).
Nurses serve as an advocate to the elders of America. The nurse’s role is to guarantee that the elders they care for are protected and that “their voice is, when he or she can or could express himself or herself, is not lost” (Touhy & Jett, 2012).