Abuse against older people is a distressing reality that can occur in various forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and even neglect. It’s a violation of human rights and dignity, often perpetrated against some of the most vulnerable members of society. In Hull and East Riding as in many other places, recognising the signs of elder abuse and knowing where to turn for support are crucial steps in addressing this issue.
Abuse can take many forms, and it often occurs in situations where trust is abused, or dependency exists. Some common types of elder abuse include:
Physical Abuse: This involves the use of force that results in bodily injury, pain, or impairment.
Emotional Abuse: This can include verbal assaults, threats, intimidation, or harassment, causing emotional pain or distress.
Financial Abuse: This occurs when someone exploits an older person for financial gain or steals their money, property, or assets.
Neglect: Neglect involves the failure to provide the necessary care, assistance, or protection to meet an older person’s basic needs.
Sexual Abuse: This involves any non-consensual sexual contact or activity with an older person.
Identifying the abuse of an older person can be challenging, as victims may be hesitant to speak out or may not recognise the abuse themselves. However, there are some common signs that may indicate abuse:
- Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures.
- Changes in behaviour, including withdrawal, depression, or anxiety.
- Sudden financial problems or unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts.
- Poor hygiene, weight loss, or untreated medical conditions.
- Isolation from family and friends or a sudden change in social activities.
Support Available in Hull: In Hull and East Riding there are several organisations and resources available to support older adults who are experiencing abuse or to those concerned about potential abuse:
Tell us: Pickering and Ferens will listen to your problem and support you with getting support confidentially.
Hull City Council Adult Safeguarding Team: The council’s Adult Safeguarding Team can provide advice, support, and intervention for adults at risk of abuse or neglect. They can be contacted directly for assistance or to report concerns.
East Riding’s Safeguarding Adults Board providing advice & support for adults at risk of abuse or neglect.
Hull and East Yorkshire Mind: This organisation offers mental health support and advocacy services for individuals experiencing emotional abuse or other forms of mental distress.
Age UK Hull: Age UK provides a range of services for older adults, including information and advice on issues such as financial abuse, housing, and social isolation.
Humberside Police: If you believe someone is in immediate danger or if a crime has been committed, you should contact the police immediately. They can investigate allegations of abuse and take appropriate action to protect the victim.
NHS Hull Clinical Commissioning Group: The NHS can provide medical assistance and support for older adults who have experienced physical abuse or neglect. They can also refer individuals to other services for ongoing support and care.
Ring 999 if you are in immediate danger, ring 101 to speak to the Vulnerable People Unit within the Police.
Abuse is a serious and often hidden problem that requires a collective effort to address and prevent. By raising awareness, recognising the signs, and knowing where to turn for support, we can work together to protect older adults in our community and ensure they live with dignity, respect, and safety. If you suspect that someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
