In Family Members
Only 10% of the elderly who need care resides in a long term care facility. This leaves 90% of the elderly either living in their own home or with their family. Not all caregivers abuse their loved ones. However, it is important to know the warning just in case you suspect a family member or just in case you may be at risk for abuse.
Elder abuse by family members may occur because of:
Caregiver burn out- caregivers feeling the day to day pressures of caregiving and not receiving help when needed
Caregiver stress- caregivers not detecting stress early on and taking it out on loved ones
Psychological and emotional problems of the family member- caregivers may have had an emotional or psychological problem as a child
History repeating itself if the caregiver was abused- the caregiver grew up in an abusive home
Caregivers who have an alcohol or addiction problem- alcohol and drug use can deter behaviors
Economic conditions- caregivers may feel pressure if unemployed and take it out on the loved one; blaming the loved one
Living arrangements- the caregiver may live in a small home and not have enough room for the loved one
Not wanting to be a caregiver- the caregiver may feel like they don't have to provide care and resent the individual who is being cared for
Preventative measures that can be taken by family members:
Catch stress early on- educate yourself on the sings and symptoms of caregiver stress
Receive help from others- if you do everything on your own, you may feel burnt out
If you cannot afford (in mind and finance) your loved one to live with you, see other options- if not, you may resent your loved one in the future
History of abuse- if you have a history of abuse, ask another family to help
Stop Elder Abuse!
Forget yourself for others, and others will never forget you.
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