Elder abuse is a global social issue which affects the health and human rights of millions of older persons around the world.
The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 66/127, designated June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It represents the one day in the year when the whole world voices its opposition to the abuse and suffering inflicted to some of our older generations
The message that will be ringing around the world on this date, is that the abuse of older people will not be tolerated. We want an end to the assault, neglect, abuse and intimidation of our older generation. We want to make our elders feel safe and respected, and in a time where they begin to feel their most vulnerable, we want them to be secure.
The ‘golden years’ – The time in one’s life where they should be able to enjoy retirement and live in peace. David Bowie once said, ‘nothing’s gonna touch you in these golden years’ and while those famous lyrics should be true, unfortunately, they do not always apply.
Financial Abuse
Financial abuse is something that is unfortunately all too common The elder population have become significantly vulnerable to financial abuse, which is often done by someone who they believed were trustworthy. Individuals who suffer from any form of Dementia, may be exceptionally susceptible to this abuse, as they rely very heavily upon those who care for them. They may not notice when things begin to go amiss, but any inconsistencies should be reported or noted straight away.
Financial abuse is the illegal or improper use of a person’s finances, examples of this could be: loss of money, jewellery or other valuable items from the house, removal of cash from a wallet or purse, cashing cheques for large amounts of money inappropriately, improperly obtaining a pin number for a bank card, or forging signatures on bank accounts and other legal documents. These acts may go unnoticed by the elderly individual.
Other examples of this could be:
- The vulnerable adult has made a new Will in favour of a ‘new’ friend or one particular family member.
- A Lasting Power of Attorney may have been made by a vulnerable adult who doesn’t decision-making capacity appointing an unsuitable attorney.
- The Vulnerable adult moves into a property with the ‘new’ friend who is now their ‘carer’.
How can you spot evidence of financial abuse?
A red flag to anyone should be the element of change to a persons finances, spending or bank statements. If you begin to notice out of character actions when looking at an elder persons finances, these may be clues as to financial abuse. These can be indicated by:
- An increase or decrease in the amount of cash in the house.
- Unpaid bills.
- Suspicious card activity, or increased withdrawals from a card.
The trend of this, like many other forms of elder abuse, is that usually the individual knows their perpetrator, and is someone in a position of trust. Individuals in a position of trust and care, are more likely to commit elder abuse.
Last year an estimate of 65% of elder abuse committed was done so via a family member and 27% was committed by a friend or neighbour.
Domestic & Sexual Abuse
Researchers at University College London (UCL) and Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust found that abuse is taking place in a stunning 99% of care homes across England. This abuse can take a number of forms, two of which are sexual and physical violence.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is present for those who have experienced either of these forms of abuse and have no other avenues to down. It is a way for blameless victims of violent crimes to claim compensation.
While no amount of money can make up for the traumatic experiences that these individuals go through, it can be used to get their lives back on track and moving forward.
We break down the role of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) here.
Action on Elder Abuse suggests that more and more elderly individuals are suffering from domestic and sexual violence. The sexual abuse of older people is a subject that is rarely discussed but is nevertheless a reality. What has been a common factor is that often it is planned by someone known to the older person, whether that be a family member, a neighbour, or a friend.
There can be many scenarios whereby this takes place; sometimes it is the continuation of domestic violence into old age, in some cases it is about exercising power and control, and in some cases, it is associated with an incestuous relationship. No matter the age of an individual, sexual abuse is still a crime, and needs to be taken just as seriously as it would be with a younger individual.
Age UK found that 1.5 million over 65s (around 1.4million elderly people) felt that what happens in their life is determined by factors beyond their control. Almost 1 million say that their life rarely has any meaning.
While we are not always able to prevent the worst from happening, it is important that that we take the necessary steps to ensure the survivors of these distressing events are still able to fully enjoy their golden years.
To learn about the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, read our guide to the CICA here.
Concluding Thoughts
The best way to protect our elder generations and stop abuse from happening, is to tell someone about it. Some will refuse to admit this abuse, as their abuser may be in their care facility, or may be family or a friend, but no one should fear speaking out against this.
No one should have to put up with abuse, just because of your age, or your capacity. Everyone is entitled to fair treatment, and should not fear that at any moment they may be subjected to some form of abuse.
Things to keep in mind, are that if you or someone you know is being subjected to some form of abuse there are things that you can do.
At Oakwood Solicitors, our staff have received training in dealing with vulnerable individuals, and we pride ourselves on taking the utmost care when dealing with sensitive subjects. We are proud to say that our team are Dementia Friends (with our head of Wills & Probate being a Dementia Champion). Our Wills & Probate Solicitors are members of Solicitors for the Elderly.
We understand the struggle some of our elder generations are facing, and we are attempting to counteract this by continually working towards making environments safe for our elder community. If you have been a victim of abuse then you may be eligible to a claim for compensation, contact us here for further information and advice.
WHAT TO DO NEXT
If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse and need help and support, please contact:
- Adult Social Services – These can be contacted via your local council.
- Your local Police safeguarding unit.
- Your GP or other NHS health providers, or social worker.
- Action on Elder Abuse helpline: 0808 808 8141.
- In an emergency – please contact 999.
If you are concerned about a loved one and want to know what legal safeguarding you can put into place, please call our Wills and Probate team on 0113 200 9787, or contact us online by clicking here.
Elder abuse is a global social issue which affects the health and human rights of millions of older persons around the world.
The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 66/127, designated…
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