Elder abuse
Elder abuse is any action, or failure to act, that causes harm or distress to an older person. It may happen once or form part of an ongoing pattern of behaviour. Abuse can take place in someone’s own home, a relative’s home, a hospital, a residential or nursing setting, or anywhere else they receive care or support.
The person responsible may be a partner, relative, friend, neighbour, carer or professional. Elder abuse is not always physical and may be difficult to recognise, particularly when the older person depends on the person causing the harm.
Types of elder abuse
Elder abuse can include physical violence, threats, intimidation, humiliation, controlling behaviour, sexual abuse, neglect or the misuse of medication. It can also involve isolating someone from friends and family or preventing them from making their own decisions.
Financial abuse is another common form of elder abuse. This may include stealing money or possessions, misusing bank cards, pressuring someone to change a will, taking control of their finances without permission or persuading them to pay for things they do not want or need.
Neglect can happen when an older person is not provided with appropriate food, heating, medication, personal care or medical attention. It may be deliberate or result from a carer being unable or unwilling to provide the support that is needed. Isle of Man adult-protection guidance recognises physical, sexual, psychological, financial, discriminatory and institutional abuse, as well as neglect and acts of omission.
Recognising the signs
Possible signs of elder abuse can include unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, weight loss, unpaid bills, missing money or possessions, sudden changes to financial arrangements, fearfulness, withdrawal or a noticeable change in behaviour.
You may also notice that another person speaks for the older person, prevents them from having visitors, controls their money or refuses to leave them alone with health or social-care professionals.
These signs do not always mean that abuse is taking place, but concerns should be taken seriously.
Getting help
An older person may be reluctant to tell someone what is happening. They may feel ashamed, fear they will not be believed or worry about losing their home, independence or relationship with the person responsible. They may also depend on that person for care, transport or financial support.
When speaking to someone you are concerned about, choose a safe and private place. Listen without judgement, avoid confronting the suspected abuser and do not promise to keep the information secret when someone may be at risk. Reassure the person that the abuse is not their fault and that support is available.
Concerns about the abuse or neglect of an adult on the Isle of Man can be reported to Manx Care’s Adult Protection Team on 01624 685969 during office hours. Outside office hours, contact Noble’s Hospital on 01624 650000 and ask for the on-call social worker for adults. When someone is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
Victim Support Isle of Man can provide free and confidential emotional and practical support to an older person who has experienced abuse. We can also support relatives or others affected by what has happened and help explain the options available, whether or not the matter has been reported to the police.