grey matters
Elder Abuse Explained by Trysh Ashby-Rolls Elder abuse is any act or omission that harms a senior, jeopardizes their welfare or health, in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust. The abuse can happen at home, in the community and in residential settings. Statistics estimate four to 10% of seniors experience some type of abuse, which can be described along a continuum from threats and neglect to physical and sexual acts and rackets targeted at seniors. As we age, our hearing isn't as sharp, but yelling and verbal intimidation cause emotional pain and distress, as does someone who ignores us. Anyone who prevents a senior from seeing their friends or participating in favourite activities is committing a psychologically abusive act. Sexual abuse, neglect or outright abandonment by caregivers is obviously abusive and it's shocking to know that some seniors are touched inappropriately, coerced into watching pornography or sex acts, or made to undress for no reason. Neglect and abandonment of elders constitutes over half of all reported cases of elder abuse. Older people often require a great deal of time and attention, but failing to meet a caretaking obligation, either intentionally or based on ignorance and denial, must be reported. Force, along with hitting and shoving, inappropriate over- or under-medication, restraints or confinement must be closely questioned. You'd think we'd all be wise to the typical financial rackets perpetrated against seniors. We've seen them all on the evening news: “prizes” an elderly person has won but must pay money to claim; phony charities and investment fraud. Financial exploitation hits where it hurts most – in the pocketbook. Unauthorized use of an elderly person’s funds or
property by a caregiver or outside scammer is a crime. Keep your personal cheques, credit cards, bank account numbers where no one but you can find them. If possible, don't let anyone see your signature. It's surprising what we can succumb to when we're alone, vulnerable and needy. Our bodies weaken as we get older. Wear and tear, lack of financial resources and stress all take their toll over a lifetime and we simply can't do what once we could. We have to ask for help. It's important, however, to remember that trust is earned. Just as an advertised wonder drug can be too good to be true, so can a helping hand. Pass your intuitive radar over any new “friend” who seems too kind to be true.
Mobile Nursing Footcare Services Glenda Bruce RN., BScN
with over 34 years in health care
If you require assistance with your footcare, you may consider a nursing footcare professional.
Be Good to Your Feet and They Will Be Good To You Services Include: ° Foot bath and inspection of feet ° Assessment of general health status ° Clean, cut and filing of toenails ° Non-invasive care of corns and calluses ° Non-invasive care of dry, cracked heels ° Moisturize and massage feet ° Client teaching ° Client referral, as required Cost per session $50 Cash or cheque accepted
Footcare
By Glenda 250-812-4009 • glenda.bruce@shaw.ca
It may not be hearing loss A FREE video ear exam can help you find out! This simple procedure can detect: - Excessive earwax - Perforated eardrum - Ear infection - Abnormalities in the ear canal These conditions are common.
Call Beltone today for an appointment!
Watch the process as it happens!
FREE
Video Ear Exam and Hearing Test
Sidney 2359 James White Blvd.
Better Hearing Through Professional Care
www.beltone.com
(250) 655-3310 Registered under the College of Speech and Hearing Professionals of BC
www.seasidetimes.ca | may 2012
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