What is abuse
physical or mental harm caused deliberately by another person or persons
what are the types of abuse and examples
- physical abuse - force or violence that causes pain, injury or death.
- sexual abuse - unwanted sexual activity
- emotional abuse - occurs through words and actions that cause mental harm
- financial abuse - misuse of a persons property or money for the abusers financial gain
- Bullying - a type of abuse where one or a group of people are involved in activities that could hurt someone else.
- neglect - failure to provide necessary care, attention, or support to someone or something, resulting in harm, lack of well-being, or deterioration
who are potential abusers
caregivers
partners
family members
older adult/resident
which individuals are more at risk for abuse
-marginalized people
-children
-socially or geographically isolated older adults
-older adults with reduced cognition
-dependent older adults
what is the cycle of abuse
tension building phase > abusive phase > honeymoon phase; repeats
what factors may increase the occurrence of abuse
- Felt overwhelmed and that no
one was available to help - Has problems with alcohol or
drugs - Has a mental illness
- Was abused as a child
- Is going though a period of high
stress
job related factors that can increase the risk of abuse
- Environment
- Lack of Education
- Inadequate supervision
- Insufficient staffing
Caregiver burnout as a result of all the stress
factor’s mentioned above is a leading cause of
abuse.
why don’t older adults report abuse
- fear of backlash from the abuser
-may not know where or how to get help
-may fear that they will be forced to move into a facility
-may not have physical/cognitive ability to report
-believe they deserved it.
what is caregiver burnout and symptoms of burnout
state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can affect people who are providing long-term care for individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, aging-related issues, or other health challenges
symptoms - over exhaustion, disrupted sleep, headaches, work related injuries, stomach problems, depression
what do you do when abuse occurs
- report immediately to your supervisor
- report the situation objectively.
what is the adult guardianship act
protects vulnerable adults from abuse
roles and responsibilities of HCA regarding abuse
-have knowledge, skill and judgement.
-provide active listening, reassurance, and empathy to the client
-recognize signs of abuse
-intervene as appropriate
- report/notify supervisor
what is the community care and assisted living act
- Regulations for facilities,
including the requirement
to report abuse
