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Elder Abuse In Nursing Home Essay

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What is elder abuse? Elder abuse is defined as any harm or abuse towards an elderly person. Examples include physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and more. Elder abuse in nursing homes has become a growing concern in society today. As individuals age, they may require the assistance of healthcare professionals to ensure their wellbeing. Unfortunately, not all nursing homes provide the best care for their elderly residents, leading to instances of abuse. This issue is very detrimental, with various factors contributing to its prevalence. In order to address elder abuse in nursing homes, it is important to understand its definition and various forms. Additionally, identifying the contributing factors can aid in the development of preventative …show more content…

According to BK Payne and LB Fletcher (2005), elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or other person that causes harm or serious risk of harm to an older adult. This can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. Nursing home residents are particularly vulnerable to abuse due to their physical and cognitive impairments and their dependence on others for basic needs. To prevent elder abuse in nursing homes, several measures need to be implemented. Firstly, nursing home staff should receive regular training on recognizing and reporting elder abuse. This training should cover topics such as identifying signs of abuse, understanding residents' rights, and reporting procedures. Secondly, nursing homes should establish clear policies and procedures for addressing elder abuse. These policies should include guidelines for investigating allegations of abuse, protecting residents from retaliation, and providing support to victims. Thirdly, nursing homes should conduct regular assessments of residents' needs and ensure that they receive appropriate care and attention. Finally, family members and friends of nursing home residents should be encouraged to visit frequently and monitor their loved ones' well-being. By implementing these measures, we can help prevent elder abuse in nursing homes and ensure …show more content…

The study found that the overall prevalence of elder abuse in nursing homes was 24.3%, with psychological abuse being the most common type of abuse reported. The study also revealed that residents who were more likely to experience abuse were those with cognitive impairment, physical dependence, and behavioral problems. Furthermore, the study found that abuse was more likely to occur in nursing homes with lower staffing levels and higher staff turnover rates. These findings indicate that elder abuse in nursing homes is a growing problem that needs to be addressed. Improving staffing levels and training for nursing home staff could help prevent and reduce elder abuse in nursing homes. Additionally, it is important for families and loved ones to be vigilant and report any signs of abuse to the appropriate

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