While Christmas should ideally be a magical time, incidents and reports of abuse tend to increase.
It is everyone’s job to look out for the older and more vulnerable members of our families and communities.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some signs of elder abuse to be aware of this holiday season. We will also provide information and resources on what to do if you suspect an older person is a victim.
What is elder abuse?
Elder abuse is abuse which occurs against older people and senior citizens.
Data shows that 96.1% of abuse against older people occurs from someone that the older person has a close relationship with. Three-quarters of those cases occur from a son or daughter. It is often the case that the older person depends on their abuser for care and support.
These factors put the older person in a vulnerable position which makes it difficult to seek support.
As families come together for the holiday season, you can be on the lookout for these signs of elder abuse.
Signs of elder abuse
“Unfortunately for some older people, Christmas can be a time of fear and confusion. The stress of the holidays can intensify some of the factors that increase the risk of abuse” (Compass).
The most common types of elder abuse are psychological and financial.
Psychological abuse includes exposing a person to any behaviours that can induce negative emotions or a poor mental state.
Signs of elder psychological abuse may include:
- Worry or anxiety about being around a certain person
- Quieter and more resigned than usual
- Symptoms of depression or fear
- Social isolation or withdrawal
- Unusual passiveness or anger
- Changes in self-esteem and confidence
Financial abuse includes controlling a person’s money or assets, stealing, or taking advantage of someone’s finances.
Signs of elder financial abuse may include:
- Unexplained disappearance of belongings
- Limited or no access to their own money or bank accounts
- Inability to pay for essentials or bills
- Stockpiling of unpaid bills
- Disparity between living conditions and money
Abuse against older people can have serious implications on their health and wellbeing. “For older people, the consequences of abuse can be especially serious and recovery may take longer” (WHO).
Helping an older person you’re worried about
Considering that many victims of elder abuse are close with and even dependent on their perpetrator, it can feel scary or embarrassing to reach out for help. In some cases, they may not even realise that they are being abused.
If you suspect that an older person in your life is a victim of abuse, there are several ways you can help.
Firstly, it’s important to express your worry to them. We suggest that you find an appropriate time and place to have this discussion; the older person should feel safe and comfortable.
Remind them there is no shame in reaching out for help.
We offer some advice on talking to an older person you’re worried about here.
You can offer your help in accessing online resources, making phone calls, and driving them or accompanying them to any in-person appointments or sessions.
You should also regularly check in with anyone you suspect is a victim of abuse, especially over the holidays. Staying in touch can greatly help their situation. “Older people may feel unwanted, or a burden, or that others don’t know they exist” (Compass).
Resources for victims of elder abuse
Resources for elder abuse victims and their families are created with the protection of older people in mind.
Compass provides plenty of information about elder abuse. Share the Compass Holiday Guide with your older loved ones.
Our Elder Abuse Prevention and Support Service (EAPSS) is a free service designed with the wellbeing and the rights of the older person in mind. We provide support and assistance to those at risk of, or currently experiencing, elder abuse.
If you suspect a loved one is a victim of elder abuse, our Senior Relationships Services are here to help. Our experienced counsellors can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.
You can learn more about our services here, or call 1300 063 232 to make an appointment.
