Seniors Abuse Awareness - Sensibilisation à la maltraitance des personnes âgées 41 Can abuse and neglect happen to anyone? Yes. Abuse and neglect can happen to anyone at any age, activity level, income or cultural background. It can happen to people who live alone, with family or in a nursing home. Who might act abusively? An abusive person is usually someone the victim knows and trusts - someone with control and influence over the senior. Abusers often isolate the victim from friends, neighbours and caring family members. However, an abuser might be anyone. This may include: • a spouse/family member • a friend • any caregiver • anyone working for an elderly person • staff in a nursing home/special care home • a stranger • a landlord What does "caregiver" mean? Caregiver means anyone who is looking after an older adult. This could be a friend, family member (including a spouse), neighbour, health care professional (such as nursing home or special care home staff) or in-home support worker (such as a homemaker). Some Reasons for Abuse and Neglect In a Family: • a stressful time in the family • poor family relations • a cycle of violence exists in the family • the abusive caregiver is trying to get even with a parent for past events • the abusive caregiver has a drug or alcohol problem • the abusive caregiver doesn't understand the aging process • the abusive caregiver has financial problems • the abusive caregiver may care for other dependants and he or she may be overwhelmed • the abusive caregiver may be elderly or disabled and incapable of looking after him or her self, in addition to someone else. In a Nursing Home, Special Care Home, etc. • lack of training • over-worked staff • stressful working environment • lack of communication. Nothing justifies abuse and neglect. PREVENTING ABUSE AND NEGLECT OF SENIORS
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