The neglect of the elderly - Essay Example

Elderly neglect is one of the most prominent issues that needs to be addressed in modern society. It is clear that every year, an estimated 4 millionolder Americans are victims of neglect. Elderly neglect has been an issue not only in nursing houses but also in other aspects. Conducive research indicates that for every case of elder abuse and neglect reported to authorities, experts estimate as many as 23 cases go undetected. The quality of life of older individuals who experience abuse is a critical element because elderly often feel neglected which may cause physiological trauma that is definitely not healthy.

This physical trauma can be a huge element as much research also suggests that older people who have been abused tend to die earlier, which is a huge concern. For the elderly, it highly imperative that they don’t experience this short of emotional trauma in their later years. A huge element to understand regarding elderly abuse is the fact that it can occur anywhere. There is much misconception that suggests that elderly neglect only occurs in senior homes which is not true at all. As a matter of fact, elderly abuse tends to take place where the senior lives: most often in the home where abusers are often adult children, other family members such as grandchildren, or spouses/partners of elders.

Elder abuse can also occur in institutional settings, especially long-term care facilities.One of the most pivotal factors of elderly neglect is the fact that there is no single pattern of elder abuse. Conducive research proves that sometimes elder neglect is a continuation of long-standing patterns of abuse emotionally, physical, and mentally occurs within the confinements of the home. Cooper (2008) Often time, the elderly become the victims of this trap because they are fragile and cannot speak up.

With the domestic structure of the modern family continuing to grow, elderly in the family have become a more inferior group and are more likely to be abuse. Since the elderly are dependent on the family for financial and emotional support, they also easily become the target for additional mental abuse. Cooper (2008) An important aspect regarding elderly abuse that it is just not confined to just older adults who have poor physical health or cognitive inhibitions that are likely to experience this abuse.

 Older individuals who are alone and depressed along with those who may have a physical disability or mental illness are vulnerable to abuse. It is evident that mental deterioration due to elderly neglect can be detrimental for those who do not have obvious risk factors. Trauma, depression and neglect are things that should be rectified by compassion and care. Cooper (2008) Most elderly individuals feel alone and depressed. Moreover, any elderly individual can be a victim of neglect, financially, mentally, and physically.

Hence, proper communication is pivotal to ensure that the elderly do not develop these emotional conditionsIn order to rectify elderly neglect, proper communication and monitoring should be conducted to ensure that these this of behavior is not condoned. Elderly neglect is a serious issues that must be addressed with prompt response and action. The Administration of Aging is a great sources that ensures the elderly are met with adequate support and treatment. Any case of neglect and abuse should be reported to this agency.

ReferencesCooper, C., Selwood, A., & Livingston, G. (2008). The prevalence of elder abuse and neglect: a systematic review. Age and Ageing, 37(2), 151-160.