Elder Abuse Awareness

iCare Home Health recognizes the importance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEADD).

The first WEAAD was acknowledged on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA). Now, ten years old, this important day continues to exist as a way to raise awareness around mistreatment of older adults.

What is elder abuse? Elder abuse can be defined as any action that harms or jeopardizes an older person’s health or welfare. While most people associate physical abuse with this definition, it is important to note that elder abuse can also come in a variety of form including:

• Emotional
• Verbal
• Financial (taking money, forgery or fraud), sexual, neglect or any denial of civil and human rights
• Physical

Often care givers become overwhelmed with providing care for their aging loved one. Feelings such as resentment, guilt, stress and sadness can lead to elder abuse. It is important to raise awareness around what is happening or what can happen in these situation and make sure that all older adults experience a life that shows them respect and dignity.

What can be done to reduce elder abuse?

If you are a senior…

• Stay active within your community.
• Keep in regular contact with friends and family.
• Know your rights.
• Plan ahead and make your wishes known.
• Ensure your legal and financial matters are in order.

If you know a senior…

• Encourage them to ask for support and assistance when required.
• Give them the opportunity to talk about mistreatment or abuse.
• Educate yourself about the different types of abuse.
• Always treat seniors with respect.

If you are a caregiver…

• Know your trigger limits and seek help from a variety of available resources.
• Take time out of caregiving by hiring a trusted home care organization to give you some respite.

Home care assistance or senior care comes with a variety of options such as providing companionship, help with bathing and meal preparation to more in depth senior care like administering medicines or wound management by a registered nurse. Additionally, iCare Home Health also offers programs specifically for those elders dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

iCare Home Health is committed to bringing in the most caring people into the homes of elders. Our caregivers are background checked, insured and are committed in heart and mind. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our services and what home care assistance and senior care we offer in the Burlington, Milton, Oakville, Mississauga and Toronto area.