Saturday, October 31, 2015

Elder abuse


Sadly, many adults who rely on family, friends and others for help suffer at the hands of those entrusted with their care. And too often, they are afraid or unable to reach out for help.

Elder abuse comes in many forms. An older adult might be abused physically, sexually, emotionally or financially. No matter what form it takes, abuse or neglect of an older adult is wrong.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, there are no accurate statistics with regard to how many people are currently suffering from elder abuse and neglect. That’s because so many cases go unreported. Statistics do show that women are more likely to suffer abuse than men, and that the older a senior is, the more likely he or she is to become a victim.

More than half of abuse cases reported in Illinois involve financial exploitation. Active or passive neglect is the second-most common form of elder abuse in the state.

Adult Protective Services, under the authority of the Illinois Adult Protective Services Act, works to protect seniors from all forms of abuse and neglect. Through its efforts, every case of suspected abuse, neglect and financial exploitation is investigated and law enforcement intervenes whenever necessary.

Anyone can report a case of adult abuse, and certain professionals, including medical personnel and Home Helpers caregivers, are required by law to report any suspected case of abuse of neglect.

To report suspected abuse, call 1-866-800-1409. For residents in nursing facilities, call 1-800-252-4343. For residents who live in supportive living facilities, call 1-800-226-0768.

To learn more about the services Home Helpers can provide, visit www.maryandmikecare.com.

Full Article & Source:
Elder abuse

2 comments:

Betty said...

Of the more than half of the cases in Illinois involving financial exploitation, how many of the exploiters are court-appointed professional guardians?

One that cares said...

No doubt more then we will ever know. I think it's just awful to be thrown into Guardianship where most abuse happens under the guise of "help" and is sanctioned by their respective States. Once in it is impossible to get out. These guardians could care less about their wards. It's all about paperwork. Finance and greed!