Prevention for older adults

While statistics show that the older you get, the less likely you are to become a victim of crime, as older people are more experienced and wiser; They tend to spend more time at home and with family and are less likely to be exposed to high-risk situations, it is no less true that many are fragile and vulnerable and targets of many different types of criminals.

Therefore, it remains important for older people to recognize risk situations and take precautions to protect themselves and their property.

Preventive measures for older adults ►

Another aspect to consider that, depending on the circumstances, may constitute a crime is the so-called mistreatment or abuse of the elderly.

What is elder abuse?

It can take many forms.

It can basically be classified into six types; emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual and negligence. It can constitute a criminal offense and domestic and family violence.

Unfortunately, it is common for elder abuse to remain hidden and go unnoticed. Elder abuse is largely unreported and, in most cases, is committed by close family members.

Examples of elder abuse:

• Attack or restrain someone.
• Causing fear by threatening to hurt a pet or break property.
• Intimidation, humiliation or harassment.
• Threatening with eviction or moving you to a nursing home.
• Block contact with family or friends.
• Do not allow autonomous decisions.
• Selling belongings without permission.
• Misuse of a durable power of attorney by improperly taking money or property.
• Force changes of will.
• Deny access to or control of funds.
• Do not allow help services.
• Neglecting physical, medical or emotional needs.

Know the signs.

There may be signs that elder abuse is occurring. Some signs that people at risk may present include:

• Fear of others.
• Irritability, emotional fragility or unexplained anxiety.
• Depressed, apathetic or withdrawn behavior.
• A change in sleeping or eating habits.
• Rigid posture and avoidance of physical contact.
• Avoid eye contact and look quickly.
• Verbalization of contradictory statements not related to mental confusion.
• Reluctance to speak openly.
• Financial stress or unpaid bills.
• Poor personal hygiene.
• Weightloss.
• Poor or inadequate presentation.
• Unexplained injuries.
• A sudden decrease in socialization.

If you know someone showing any of these signs, start a conversation with the person and ask if they are okay. And remember, an older person may be reluctant to talk about elder abuse because of shame, fear, or unwillingness to cause problems for their family members. Elder abuse is unlikely to stop unless something is done.

Immediate reporting to local authorities.

Elder abuse

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