Contrary to popular opinion, abuse is rarely deliberate. Very few people set out to harm or hurt their elderly parents or relations in any way. Usually the main problem identified is the sheer frustration and sense of helplessness a carer feels when faced with looking after a person they love, and knowing that they simply aren't able to cope.
Sometimes it can also be a case of the carer not actually knowing what constitutes abuse. For example, did you know if you're the named person collecting the pension for an elderly dependent, and you haven't accounted for every euro spent of this money in their name - you could be open to a charge of fraud?. More on this later.
If you feel you need help either because you're afraid that you're not able to cope with caring for an older person, or if you feel an older person you know might be suffering abuse - contact me fhorsmanhogan@eircom.net.
As a nurse specialising in Care of the Elderly, what I can't answer myself, I can refer to my social worker, nurse or doctor friends. The important thing here is that you can express your concerns here without fear of exposure. Full anonymity is guaranteed. With your permission, and only with your permission, your query will be put up for others to benefit from. However it will be sanitised in such a way that no person or place will be identifiable. Only health care workers will be involved in seeking help for any queries. The above email is my personal one - not linked to this blog.
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