PUBLIC HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
Fighting Elder Abuse
Fighting Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult.The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or a person the elder trusts.Elder abuse is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.
Causes Elder Abuse:
Understaffing as a Cause of Elder Abuse. The understaffing of nursing facilities is a controversial topic.
Neglect Due to Understaffing.
Abuse Due to Understaffing.
Personal Issues Among Caregivers.
Understanding Caregiver Issues.
Cultural and Familial Differences.
Signs of Elder Abuse:
Cuts and abrasions.
Bruising and welts.
Broken bones.
Broken eyeglasses.
Drug overdose.
Rope marks on wrists.
Sprains or dislocations
Elder abuse is widespread and impacts everyone in our society. It takes away from our public health, civic participation, and economic resources. The mistreatment of older people can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect.
Indian Provisions Regarding Elder Abuse: Maintenance of Parents Act (2007) - This law was amended twice, first in 2013 and then in 2018. The original Act directed that the sons have a legal obligation towards taking care of their parents. After an amendment in 2013, the parents could complain against them and the sons could be held legally for not supporting their parents. In the amendment of 2018, daughters and sons-in-law were also held responsible for supporting their parents.
Parents and Senior Citizens Act (2007) - is a bill that makes it a legal obligation for children and legal guardians to provide maintenance to older adults. It permits state governments to start and maintain old age homes in each district.
The new bill i.e. Parents and Senior Citizens Amendment) Bill 2019 which aims to provide for the maintenance and welfare of parents and senior citizens for ensuring their basic needs, safety and security, establishment, management, and regulation of institutions and services, and rights guaranteed under the Constitution.