By Kristy Deer
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| Hancock County Prosecutor Brent Eaton |
Elder abuse, which includes the neglect of the elderly, is far more common than many people realize, Eaton noted, and he wants to do something about it by shedding more light on the topic.
“While about 1 in 10 people ages 60 and older who live in a home experience abuse, many situations go unreported,” Eaton said.
Earlier this month, officials from around the state, nation and world bought the topic of elder abuse to light during Elder Abuse Awareness Day in mid-June. However, Eaton noted the abuse of the elderly is something he thinks about quite often and wants to make sure it is not happening locally. When it does, he wants offenders held accountable.
In an effort to share more on the issue, Eaton is encouraging everyone who is associated with an elder person to educate themselves on what he calls “an important issue” and to report concerns of elder abuse or neglect to local law enforcement.
“Cases go unreported for many reasons,” Eaton said. “Victims may not have the physical capability or support they need to ask for help, or they may not want to accuse a caregiver or family member of harm and get them in trouble.”
In addition, Eaton noted, investigations for elder abuse cases can be difficult and take a long time, which can be frustrating for victims and loved ones.
“Not all behavior which appears to be morally wrong necessarily fits the very narrow criminal statutes which Indiana has for prosecution on these issues, but if you suspect you or someone you know may be a victim, please reach out to local law enforcement so the concerns can be properly investigated,” Eaton said.
With a proper investigation, Eaton stated, his prosecutors can work to see what statutes may apply and can also work with other resources to help victims and hold offenders accountable when possible.
Elder abuse commonly occurs at the hands of a caregiver person the elder trusts. Types of elder abuse include physical abuse — when an elder experiences illness, pain, injury, functional impairment, distress or death as a result of the intentional use of physical force. That includes acts such as hitting, kicking, pushing, slapping and burning.
There can also be sexual abuse, which involves forced or unwanted sexual interaction of any kind with an older adult. This may include unwanted sexual contact or non-contact acts such as sexual harassment.
Emotional or psychological abuse also occurs and refers to verbal or nonverbal behaviors that inflict anguish, mental pain, fear or distress on an older adult. Examples include humiliation or disrespect, verbal and non-verbal threats, harassment and geographic or interpersonal isolation.
There can also be neglect which is the failure to meet an older adult’s basic needs. These needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene and essential medical care. Plus, financial abuse is the illegal, unauthorized or improper use of an elder’s money, benefits, belongings, property or assets for the benefit of someone other than the older adult.
“Our elderly population are among the most vulnerable,” Eaton said. “It’s vital that those who interact with an elderly person understand the signs of abuse and immediately report it.”
In addition to calling local authorities, the Indiana Council Against
Senior Exploitation is a resource that can help. If you or someone you
know is a victim of elder abuse, report it immediately. If there’s an
immediate threat, dial 911. To report incidents of fraud, obtain a case
manager or connect with resources. You can also call the National Elder
Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.
Full Article & Source:
Prosecutor asks public to report elder abuse
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