Protecting the Vulnerable

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and June 15^th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It is estimated that five million, or one in ten older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. It is widely believed that elder abuse is significantly underreported.  With the slashing of social service programs, cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits, it is likely the numbers will go up.

Too many Americans already have to choose between paying a utility bill and filling a prescription. Too many Americans are at risk for self-neglect because they are isolated and don’t have access to resources like Senior Centers and Adult Day Centers.

Elder abuse includes self-neglect. When older adults are no longer able to properly care for themselves, their physical surroundings may be in disarray. Spoiled food or lack of food also signals an inability to adequately care for themselves. Unpaid bills, prescriptions that are not up to date, wearing soiled clothes, wearing seasonally inappropriate clothing, and hoarding behavior are all signs of self-neglect.   

Elder abuse also includes financial abuse/scams. Using the money or property of adults with disabilities and adults over 65, for personal gain and without their informed consent is a crime. Informed consent means that the elder has the cognitive ability to consent to the use of their funds. Older adults with mild to moderate memory impairment are at increased risk for financial exploitation.

Elder abuse also includes, physical, emotional and sexual abuse.  Abuse can be perpetrated by family members, neighbors, and paid caregivers. There are a few physical signs to be aware of; unexplained bruises, reports of recent falls and sudden weight loss. Those at risk or being abused may be reluctant to disclose their abuse due to fear, embarrassment and feelings of powerlessness. Establishing a caring relationship through time can help elders feel safe being honest about their situations.

Elder abuse and self-neglect are reportable, just like child abuse. Each state has a hotline to report abuse and self-neglect, and you can report anonymously. Everyone is a mandated reporter. It is a legal as well as a moral obligation.

Jesus often spoke of the child and the widow in his teachings. This was code language for the most at risk and vulnerable populations. Not much has changed in two thousand years. Caring for the most vulnerable in our midst is an act of faith and a point toward justice. All people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and to be protected from abuse, exploitation and self-neglect.

If you suspect that an elder or disabled person is being exploited call your state hotline. In Connecticut the Elder Abuse Hotline number is 1-888-385-4425 from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. You can report anonymously. If you SUSPECT an elder is being exploited or abused call the hotline. You do not have to have proof; the suspicion is enough to make the call. If you believe the individual is in immediate danger, call 911.

Preventing elder abuse and self-neglect is everyone’s responsibility. If you suspect something, say something. Even if no immediate action is taken, a call to the Hotline puts the individual on their radar. If additional calls are made, it strengthens the suspicion of abuse or neglect.

Do for someone else what you hope someone will do for you if you are unable to care for yourself. It’s a Jesus thing.