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Dear Dr. Cherrye,
Thank you for making your audience aware of Financial Elder Abuse and its nasty nuances. It is sad knowing there are people ‘out there’ who would cause harm to the elderly and their families, but reality is best for all involved. How then, would you explain Emotional Elder Abuse? How does this kind of abuse tie into Financial Elder Abuse, or does it? Please shed light on this type, Dr. Cherrye.
Dear please shed light on this type,
Emotional Elder Abuse can be a tricky phenomenon because it deals with so many aspects. The abuser messes with not only the elderly’s psyche (psychological abuse), but there is an attempt to also fool the elder’s family members as well. The abuser is slick with their intended hurtful tactics, words, and threats. They are good at masking who they really are.
CLEVER
Remember, the abuser is very clever. They show up with great deeds, and sweet, outwardly affects when family members are present and watching, but in the absence of others (especially family members) the abuser yells, threatens, intimidates, hurls insults, and put-downs. The abuser often tells the elderly they are ‘this way or that way’ because they are ‘old’ and many times when no one is looking, they are absent – not helpful in the life of the elderly.
Growing old should be an honor, but ageism can be cruel. Here is a resource that may help you think through how this sort of discriminatory hurt plays a role in emotional elder abuse. Take a look at Nerenberg’s book titled: ‘Critical Topics in an Aging Society: Elder Justice, Ageism and Elder Abuse‘. It is a revelation!
The elderly are on his/her own when left with the abuser. The abuser ignores your loved one unless they need something (to their advantage) from the elderly. The abuser is of the mind-set “What can you do for me?”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Watch the behaviors of the elderly. Does he/she appear nervous around the caretaker?
Listen intently to the elderly. What are they telling you?
How are your elderly people treated? Are they reporting verbal or emotional mistreatment?
Look for agitation. Are your elderly upset often than not and for no apparent reason?
Look for Depression. Are your elderly anxious a lot?
Are your elderly withdrawn? Do they sleep a lot? Are they always in one area of the home?
Look for blatant neglect. Are your elderly people fed nutritious meals? Are your elderly people taking daily medications as per their doctor’s orders? Are your elderly people getting enough exercise and water?
Do your research. Read and learn what to look for. Your elderly depends on you for help. Many times, their help is limited. Lord, forbid they have no children, or not many to step in. May I suggest a resource for you to read? ELDER ABUSE: Protect Your Loved Ones, Spot the Warning Signs, and Take Action — A Life-Saving Guide to Preventing and Stopping Elder Abuse for Good
There is no time to lose! You must ensure the best outcome for your elderly because they deserve to live out their lives happy and free from unnecessary hurt or harm. Be sure to DOCUMENT all abuse and neglect of any kind. You may have to install cameras in your home to gain more evidence but never delay obtaining immediate help for your elderly.
As a family member who cares deeply for the elderly, know your rights and know the rights of your loved one(s). Our elderly deserve us to fight and advocate for THEM!
YOUR THOUGHTS?
What experiences have you had on this topic? Please share with this audience.
STAY TUNED
Look for upcoming blog posts on Elder Abuse. The below titles are left for me to address:
*Physical
*Sexual
*Neglect
OPEN FOR COMMENTS
IMPORTANT
I have made it my mission to assist parents and educators in resolving the bullying issues children suffer. Offering your feedback and suggestions in the comment section could facilitate meaningful dialogue on this critical issue among ourselves and I encourage this. I will respond to each comment in a timely way. Should you wish to speak privately with me, please email me at cherryeVasquez@gmail.com and I will reply promptly.
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