Abuse Ignores Age
Posted by
Drew DixonFebruary 21, 2008 4:30 PMThe National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) routinely collects data and information regarding nursing home residents and instances of nursing home abuse. Once the information is collected the NCEA compiles the information and releases statistics regarding abuse in nursing homes and other care giving facilities in the United States. However, the NCEA cannot determine just how many older Americans are being abused. It is estimated that for every 1 case of elder abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect reported, approximately five more cases go unreported.
According to statistics recently released by the NCEA, more than 30 percent of all nursing homes in the United States have been involved in some form of resident abuse. Furthermore, more than 50 percent of the nursing homes in the United States are understaffed.
With the age of the population ever increasing, more people find themselves requiring the assistance of these facilities. In fact, it is estimated that the demand for beds will far exceed the supply by the year 2010.
Most people believe that nursing home abuse comes at the hands of staff members. However, many instances of abuse come from other residents or occupants. It is hard to make an exact definition of nursing home abuse because no two cases are the same. Nursing home abuse may be in the form of physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, malnutrition, and neglect.
For more information on nursing home abuse and ways that you can help, please check out the NCEA website at: www.ncea.aoa.gov.