When we think of elder abuse, many of us automatically assume the abuse and neglect takes place in nursing homes. Sadly, elder abuse at the hands of caregivers in the home is on the rise. A caregiver is a term used to refer to anyone that routinely helps others with daily life activities. Formal caregivers are usually employed by a social service organization or a home health care company. Informal caregivers are most commonly family members that step in to help the elderly or disabled family member with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking and shopping.
How Large of a Problem is Elder Abuse by Caregivers?
Thankfully, the vast majority of caregivers step up to the plate, and despite the physical and emotional demands, are rising to the challenges and providing excellent care. Unfortunately, 90% of all elder abuse reported is at the hands of family members, and between 5% and 23% of all caregivers are physically abusive. The majority of experts agree that the abuse is most commonly the result of caregiver stress.
What Causes Caregiver Stress?
There are many causes for caregiver stress. Sometimes, the caregiver is spread too thin, caring for small children or a juggling a busy career while caring for an elderly family member. The relationship the caregiver had with the elder before they became a caregiver can also play a large role in caregiver stress. Added challenges, such as Alzheimer’s, dementia and aggression from the care receiver can cause even the most patient caregivers to lose control.
Why is Caregiver Stress Harmful?
Stress is the body’s way of putting us into high alert. Stress activates the “flight or fight” response to danger. It causes heart beat and respiration to speed up, and less essential bodily functions, such as the immune system, to temporarily shut down. Stress is natural, and in small doses healthy. Unfortunately, stress experienced by caregivers is often ongoing, with little to any downtime for the body to recover and heal from the stress. Overtime, this can cause aggressive tendencies, short tempers and unpredictable outbursts of anger or rage that can translate to elder abuse.
