World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
 June 15th was World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). WEAAD was launched by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The goal of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons.
Elder abuse includes financial, sexual and emotional abuse. It also includes neglect, which is when a caregiver fails to provide proper care to the older adult. Survivors of abuse are at a 300% higher risk of early death, have higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidality, and incur significant financial losses.
Abuse can be committed by family, caregivers, professionals, friends, or even strangers. Unfortunately, the majority of abuse is committed within the family by an adult child or spouse.
Elder abuse affects older adults of all races, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. Research has shown that 10% of all older adults in the community will experience some form of abuse.
Unfortunately, individuals living with dementia have shown to be at an increased risk for experiencing abuse. Research shows that 50% of individuals with dementia will experience abuse. Individuals living with dementia are likely to be more isolated and may be unable to report due to impairments in memory and communication skills. Their reports may not be believed due to their dementia diagnosis. Additionally, they may fear retaliation or fear that reporting will cause them to lose their caregiver.
It is important to remember that caregiver stress is never an excuse for abuse. Family caregivers experience high rates of stress. However, the majority of stressed caregivers never abuse. Caregiver stress most often leads to caregiver distress, which can include neglecting their own care, substance use, experiencing financial stress, depression, anxiety etc. A focus on caregiver stress can lead to blaming victims and less accountability for perpetrators.
How can we all help prevent elder abuse?
- Social connection is a significant protective factor against elder abuse. Stay connected with friends, family or neighbors living with dementia. Help individuals connect to adult day programs, memory cafes, or other social groups.
- Know the warning signs of abuse!
- Know where and how to report!
- Attend a local WEAAD event in your community!
Unfortunately, most cases of elder abuse go unreported. Only 4% of elder abuse cases are ever reported.
All reports of suspected elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation should be made to Adult Protective Services in the county where the older adult lives. Reports can also be made to the Virginia State Hotline: 888-832-3858 or using the online portal: Virginia Adult Protective Services Reporting Portal
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