In Iowa, elder abuse is a prevalent issue. However, most of the cases go unreported, which makes older adults even more vulnerable to injury. The National Council on Aging says that about one in every ten seniors suffer from abuse. However, the number of reported cases is only the tip of the iceberg, as many cases remain undisclosed.
Older victims often fear their abusers, which is why they do not report. In some cases, they do not have access to help. In many cases, victims want to protect the abuser as they are often a part of the family or a caregiver. The inadequate amount of help resources available to elderly victims can be concerning.
If you or your loved one has suffered from abuse, do not remain silent. Many families do not take action because they are unaware of the legal remedies available to them. If you suspect abuse, it is crucial to contact a personal injury lawyer near me who specializes in elder law. They can offer the help you need during such difficult times.
Factors contributing to underreporting of elder abuse
1.Fear and intimidation.
One of the main reasons why elder abuse cases often go unreported is because of the fear and intimidation in the victims. It is usually a family member or a caregiver of the elderly adult that causes the distressing event. Victims may worry about retaliation or feel a sense of dependency on their abuser. This prompts them to remain silent and endure the abuse.
2.Psychological barriers.
Many older people suffer from certain psychological barriers that prevent them from seeking help in the event of abuse. This may include feelings of shame, guilt, and embarrassment. They may also doubt their perception of the abuse and wonder whether what has happened to them comes under maltreatment. This is common when the abuser manipulates their reality.
3.Lack of awareness.
Another crucial factor is not being aware of what is happening to them. Older adults often do not recognize the signs of abuse or believe that their experiences are “normal” in their relationships with caregivers. The abuser also plays a role in making them think this way. The victim may continue to endure the abuse as they do not know it is wrong.
4.Systemic challenges.
Various prevalent systemic issues within the nursing homes in Iowa make elder abuse go unreported. Many nursing homes hire unskilled staff and do not provide them with proper training. A lot of them are understaffed and burdened with too many residents to care for, which results in frustration and prompts them to inflict abuse on the individual.
5.Access to help.
To encourage victims to come forward and seek help, it is important to have a clear policy in the facility. Many elder individuals do not know what steps to take after abuse because there is no established system in place. Or, they may have some physical or cognitive conditions that prevent them from accessing such systems.
6.Negligent healthcare providers.
Finally, the negligence on the part of healthcare providers matters a lot. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and allied health workers, are often on the front lines of elder care. They are trained enough to recognize the signs of abuse and know where the injuries come from. They must look out for such signs during routine examinations.
However, healthcare providers often miss these signs. Subtle symptoms, such as unexplained bruises, changes in behavior, and withdrawal from activities, can go unnoticed.
Protect your loved one today!
The decision to send your loved one to a nursing home is already a difficult one. When you find out that they have been maltreated at their facility, it can take a toll on your emotional health. Hire a nursing home attorney in Iowa today!
