Elder abuse is a heartbreaking and often hidden issue affecting our older population. It’s a multifaceted problem that encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including financial exploitation, domestic violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and more. At CAPSA, support is available for elderly individuals facing these harrowing situations.  

Shedding Light on Elder Abuse: Its Prevalence and Forms  

Elder abuse, unfortunately, is more common than many might realize. Statistics reveal that a significant percentage of elderly individuals experience some form of abuse, whether it’s financial manipulation, emotional maltreatment, neglect, or physical harm.  

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), “approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as five million elders who are abused each year. One study estimated that only one in 24 cases of abuse are reported to authorities.” 

Perpetrators of elder abuse can be both women and men. According to the NCOA, “In almost 60% of elder abuse and neglect incidents, the perpetrator is a family member. Two-thirds of perpetrators are adult children or spouses.” 

Signs of Elder Abuse 

• Physical harm, neglect, or mistreatment: bruises, pressure marks, fractures, scrapes, or burns.  
• Emotional abuse: inexplicable withdrawal from usual activities, sudden shifts in alertness or unexplained depression, strained relationships, or frequent disputes between the caregiver and elderly person.  
• Financial abuse: abrupt alterations in financial circumstances.  
• Neglect: bedsores, unaddressed medical needs, inadequate hygiene, or unexplained weight loss.  
• Verbal or emotional abuse: demeaning remarks, threats, or the exertion of power and control by individuals. 

CAPSA: Providing Hope for Elder Abuse Survivors  

At CAPSA, compassionate and comprehensive support is available for elderly individuals experiencing abuse:  

• Safe Shelter and Resources: CAPSA offers shelter for elder abuse survivors, as well as food, clothing, and essential resources to ensure their safety and well-being.  
• Specialized Counseling and Advocacy: Elderly individuals facing abuse can access specialized counseling services tailored to their needs. CAPSA’s trained advocates offer support, guidance, and advocacy to help survivors navigate legal, financial, and emotional challenges.  
• Community Education and Prevention: CAPSA actively engages in educational programs aimed at raising awareness about elder abuse, advocating for prevention, and empowering communities to recognize the signs and take action.  

Together, Let’s Break the Cycle of Elder Abuse  

Elder abuse thrives in silence, but together, we can end the cycle. By shedding light on its prevalence, understanding its intersections with other forms of abuse, and supporting organizations like CAPSA, we take a crucial step toward creating a world where elderly individuals can age with dignity, respect, and safety.  

Let’s stand united in support of elder abuse survivors, ensuring they receive the care, compassion, and resources they deserve. Remember, help is available, and you are not alone.  

Finding Help and Contributing to Change  

If an older adult is in immediate, life-threatening danger, call 911. Anyone who suspects that a vulnerable adult is being mistreated is a mandatory reporter in Utah and should contact their local Adult Protective Services office or police.  

If you or someone you know is an elderly individual facing abuse, CAPSA’s 24/7 crisis line is available for immediate assistance. Additionally, supporting CAPSA through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness can significantly impact their ability to provide crucial support to elder abuse survivors. 

Here to Help  

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.