Inappropriate behavior towards the elderly (Elder Abuse) It may occur only once or repeatedly, resulting in pain or damage to the elderly.

Abusive behavior can occur anywhere, whether it is in the home of an elderly person. The perpetrator can be a family member, caregiver, or even a friend of the elderly person. The pattern of behavior is covered.6 The following aspects include:

• Physically (Physical abuse)Elderly people suffer physical injuries such as beatings, including detention or physical restraint without their consent.
• Mental or emotional (Emotional abuse)Continuous use of hurtful words, shouting, threatening, or ignoring Preventing the elderly from meeting those around them
• Sexual (Sexual abuse)Forcing the elderly to engage in sexual behavior without consent.
• Neglect (Neglect)Caregivers do not respond to basic physical, psychological, or social needs, such as not giving them medication, food, or taking them to the doctor.
• Abandonment (Abandonment)Leaving the elderly in need of help, such as family members, to run errands outside the home without prior notice and without a caregiver.
• Property (Financial abuse)Unauthorized use of the assets of the elderly. Concealing financial information or important documents without consent, such as cashing cheques or withdrawing money from accounts without permission.These actions may result in the loss of human dignity for the elderly, which is a violation of basic human rights.

          Examples of studies in 20192017 It is estimated that each year there will be people aged60 Around 10 years or more.1 In6 Or think of it as15.7% have been subjected to some form of inappropriate treatment from within the community.94 Education from35 In countries around the world, the proportion of elderly people who are mistreated is about 27.6%, with the most psychological abuse.

Protect veterans: Stay ahead of the curve Prevent disasters

1. Build trusting relationships - Talk openly and regularly with the elderly, and encourage interaction with those around them, such as family members, friends, or the community, to reduce isolation and create warmth.
2. Manage Caregiver Stress - Caregivers should be adequately rested to restore energy and prevent burnout. In addition, they should be given the opportunity to consult family members or professionals when stress or negative emotions occur.
3. Observe and visit regularly.- If you do not live with the elderly, you should find time to visit regularly at different times. To observe the body, emotions, and behavior, as well as ask for raw distress so that the elderly feel safe and have the courage to express their concerns or discomfort.
4. Protect the financial assets of the elderly.- Preventive measures should be taken, such as the appointment of trusted financial custodians. Regular audits of bank statements, and restriction of access to financial information, etc.

Inappropriate behavior towards the elderly affects their physical, mental, and quality of life, and violates basic human rights more than many people realize. As the number of elderly people increases rapidly, Awareness and understanding of patterns of inappropriate behavior, as well as guidelines to protect the elderly, are key to effectively reducing risks. If you find or suspect inappropriate behavior, You can report it to the hotline 1300 Social Assistance Center. Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to receive counseling and assistance as well.

On October 1 every year, which is the International Day of the Elderly (International Day of Older Persons) We invite everyone to recognize and promote the rights of the elderly, and encourage all sectors to create a safe environment so that the elderly can live with dignity, safety, and proper respect.

Reference List

1. World Health Organization. Abuse of older people [Internet]. 2024 Jun 15 [cited 2025 Aug 1]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/abuse-of-older-people
2. Yon Y, Mikton CR, Gassoumis ZD, Wilber KH. Elder abuse prevalence in community settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Global Health. 2017;5(2):e147-e56.
3. Kitaw TA, Baylie A, Tekle BA, Tilahun BD, Getie A, Abate BB, et al. Elder abuse without borders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health. 2025;25(1):2268.
4. Tackling abuse of older people: five priorities for the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030). Geneva: World Health Organization; 2022. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
5. Kyle Bachus. Elder Abuse: Risk Factors and Prevention in Caregivers [Internet]. Denver, CO: Bachus & Schanker; 2025 Apr 24 [cited 2025 Aug 1]. Available from: https://www.coloradolaw.net/blog/caregiver-risks/