The Issue of Elder Abuse - Essay Example

Old aged people tend to develop some weaknesses with their deteriorating age. First of all, their physical strength cannot be compared with that of younger healthy individuals, whether of the same sex or not. According to Kim and Geistfeld, social support, cognitive ability, and health status are a combination of factors that suggest elder vulnerability to abuse (n.d.). In the case of Ms. Sanders, at an age of 72 years, her physical body and strength can be categorized as one of her vulnerabilities.

Besides experiencing a decline in her health status, she may not be able to fight back when confronted, or stand up to bullying from the suspected caregiver. Though nothing to do with her cognitive ability is mentioned to be wrong, the aspect of her being a woman and at an old age with health problems, her chances of vulnerability are increased. Characteristics of elders who are at risk of being abused many factors pu elderly persons at risk of being abused; these characteristics can be exhibited by their economic, physical, social, and psychological statuses in life.

In the case of psychological and mental conditions (for example mental illness) of elderly persons, the abusers may intend to confuse and exploit their cognitive abilities and decision-making, to benefit from the wrong decision made without clear consent or comprehension of what is happening. In some cases, the elders are economically well up, which reflects the case of Ms. Sanders and the abuser hopes to benefit from her wealth and property. From a physical and social perspective, the physically disabled and persons with ill health, isolated elders, those with low self-esteem and self-worth (psychological problem ), or with records of family conflicts and tension are common characteristics of potential victims of abuse (“Risk Factors,” 2013).

Should she be aware of certain characteristics of abusers? Elder persons should not ignore certain basic actions within or directed towards them in their environment, despite the relationship they have with the persons who execute them. The abusers could be their relatives, hired caregivers, closest family members, or even unexpected friends. These abusers may be under certain stress, under pressure, or intentionally abusing with a motive. According to Aravanis, some characteristics of abusers are those with a history of domestic violence, drug or alcohol dependence, negligent individuals, longstanding personal traits that reflect low patience and tolerance, persons with mental illnesses, or even those dependent on others to solve their problems (2005).