Mickey Rooney just testified before Congress regarding how he believes that he has been abused by his step-son and step-daughter. There is some indication that Brooke Astor was financially abused by her son and daughter-in-law. While these are both cases involving a great deal of money and control of that money, there is a thread common to many cases over the entire spectrum of aging persons; the persons who are entrusted to care for persons when they are unable to care for themselves fail in their responsibilities.
We need to be aware of what is happening with our aging friends and relatives. Abuse takes many forms and some are more evident than others. Frequent “falls”, bruises, broken bones and other injuries are relatively obvious if you are seeing your relative regularly. While this may not be actual battery by the caregiver, failing to obtain medical care is also abuse. In either case, this needs to be reported to someone. If there is an immediate danger, call 9-1-1, if not check with the county office of services to the aging, the person’s primary care physician or clergyman.
If you notice that someone lacks clothing that is in good repair, appropriate for the weather or if the house is not being maintained, check up to see what is happening. If the aging person is losing weight, follow up. The weight loss may or may not be related to being deprived of nutritious food in large enough quantities.
Don’t wait for the aging person to speak up if you are concerned. The abused individual may be ashamed that they have lost control over their finances, health care, etc or they may be frightened to talk to anyone for fear of retaliation. The abused person is often in a situation that can not be changed from within; if you are concerned, take action. Keep in contact so that you will notice changes that need to be addressed.
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