About Elder Physical Abuse

Unfortunately, physical abuse of an elder is more common than most people would think as well. Physical abuse is any force that causes personal injury or pain. This includes striking, hitting, beating, shoving, among other actions. Physical abuse also can mean tying down an elder with unnecessary or brutal restraints that limit movement. This can lead to muscle atrophy and further degeneration of the muscles.
Physical abuse against the elderly may be perpetrated by an acquaintance, doctor, nurse, caregiver, family member or another individual in the life of an elderly person. According to the US National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (NCPEA), most perpetrators of elder physical abuse are unemployed, single and live with the elder in his or her own home.

Steps to Protecting an Elderly Loved One

Research Nursing Abuse

It is important to check the national registry of Medicare-funded nursing homes before choosing a facility. The registry details citations for sexual abuse and or neglect for the last three years.  However, not all victims report the crimes. Therefore, experts say to ask about staff training, frequency of check-ins, and criminal background checks of staff, volunteers and vendors.
Also, it is important to know the rights of a loved one. Any nursing home or facility receiving funds from Medicare or Medicaid fall under federal law. The law says every 90 days every resident need a medical exam performed by a medical doctor or physician’s assistant. These exams not being performed could be a sign of abuse. Watch for facilities not giving a meeting place. Federal law says that when two or more relatives of a facility meet, the residence must give them a place to talk.