Prevention and early detection of elder abuse 高齢者虐待の防止と早期発見

In order to protect the rights of the elderly by detecting elder abuse early and providing support to the elderly themselves and their caregivers (caregivers) such as family and relatives, the "Elder Abuse Prevention Act" was enacted in April 2006.

The Elder Abuse Prevention Act stipulates that anyone who notices abuse is obligated to report it to their city, town, or village. If you notice or suspect abuse, you can prevent the situation from becoming serious by consulting and reporting it early.

The following acts by "caregivers (those who are currently caring for the elderly)" and "care facility staff" against people aged 65 or older constitute abuse.

Pinching, hitting, kicking, forcing food into their mouths,  get them burned , tying them to a bed or locking them in a room, etc.

Not allowing them to bathe, not feeding them, not changing their diapers, forcing them to live in poor living conditions

Limiting or denying them access to necessary care and medical services, etc.

Yelling, cursing, intentionally ignoring, etc.

Making fun of the person who fail to defecate and embarrass them, etc.

For failing to defecate, the person is punished by being stripped naked from the waist down, committing obscene acts, forcing sexual acts, etc.

Not giving money necessary for daily life, using the person's savings without permission, etc.

Elder abuse is a familiar problem that can happen to anyone.

Furthermore, even if you think you are providing care with the elderly person's best interests in mind, if you do so alone, you may end up abusing the elderly unintentionally, such as by caring in an inappropriate way.

In order to prevent elder abuse, it is important to not isolate caregivers and the elderly themselves, by keeping an eye on them in the community.

It is important to reduce the burden on caregivers, for example by making effective use of social services, and to create an environment in which they can continue to provide care without overexerting themselves.

Caregiving can take a huge toll on both your body and mind without you even realizing it. Don't worry alone, seek advice.

1. Get help from those around you: Don't try too hard on your own, ask for help from your family and those around you.

2. Consult a specialist institution: Consult your family's doctor, care manager, local comprehensive support center, etc.

3. Make use of various services: Make good use of services to reduce the burden of caregiving.

4. Exchange information and make friends: In order to continue providing care, it is important to know good caregiving methods and to have friends. Try participating in caregiver gatherings, dementia cafes, and meetings for people with dementia and their families.

Noticing small changes and signs in elderly people and their families, and speaking up and supporting each other will help prevent abuse.

If you suspect an elderly person has been abused, or if you notice something strange, please do not hesitate to speak up.

Confidentiality of those who speak up will be kept.

For inquiries, please contact the Nagahama City Longevity Promotion Division.