Elder Abuse: A Silent Epidemic

As we all grapple with the unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, one quiet yet rapidly growing crisis calls for our immediate attention: the alarming increase in elder abuse. Data shows a stark reality that around 1 in 6 people aged 60 years and older have experienced some form of abuse in community settings during the past year.

Elder abuse, often a silent form of violence, is a sweeping issue that encompasses a broad spectrum of offences. It ranges from physical and sexual abuse to emotional abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Its manifestations are diverse, yet its consequences are universally detrimental, leading to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences. These abuses can inflict a gamut of physical injuries, varying from minor wounds and abrasions to severe trauma such as fractures and head injuries. Furthermore, the elderly are more susceptible to injuries due to their fragile health and increased comorbidities. Such injuries can substantially worsen their overall health status, leading to increased dependence, disability, or even premature death.

The psychological impact of elder abuse, while less visible, is no less damaging. Long-term psychological consequences can include depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Victims often undergo a profound sense of fear, insecurity, and helplessness, losing their faith in humanity and their sense of safety in their surroundings. Moreover, due to the stigma and the feeling of shame associated with abuse, many victims remain silent, perpetuating a cycle of continued violence and increasing their sense of isolation and despair.

The isolation and physical distancing measures introduced to combat the COVID-19 pandemic have inadvertently created a petri dish for elder abuse to flourish. Pre-pandemic, community interactions and public activities provided some measure of oversight, offering potential respite and chances for intervention. With lockdowns and social distancing protocols in place, however, many older adults have found themselves increasingly secluded and more vulnerable to abuses, particularly from caregivers on whom they rely. The rise in elder abuse rates during the COVID-19 pandemic demands swift action. It is a societal issue that necessitates a multidimensional approach, one that encompasses enhanced public awareness, legislative measures, professional training, and community support services.

Firstly, creating public awareness around the incidence, types, and consequences of elder abuse is of paramount importance. People need to understand that elder abuse is not just a personal issue, but a community concern that affects us all, directly or indirectly. Secondly, laws and regulations need to be strengthened and strictly enforced to protect older adults from any form of abuse or exploitation. Training programs should be instituted for professionals in healthcare, social services, law enforcement, and financial institutions to detect and report suspected abuse. Older adults also need access to resources and services that support their physical, mental, and social well-being. This includes healthcare, counselling, safe housing, and social programs that foster engagement and companionship.