When you think about senior care centers, you probably imagine a place of camaraderie, where older people get together to make friends and share their interests. Unfortunately, a series of investigations around the country in recent years have revealed a dark side to some senior centers and homes: bullying. Neighborly Home Care, a trusted provider of in home health care services for seniors, wants residents trying to make choices about their loved ones’ care to be wary.
The Problem of Bullying Among Seniors
A recent SF Chronicle article we read described this:
At a senior high-rise, a woman who saw herself as the queen of the parking garage would key the cars of those who crossed her. Elsewhere, laundry rooms became vicious places where the bullied had their detergent stolen and their clothes thrown on the floor. Bingo rooms so often devolved into battlefields — with lucky newcomers badgered and accused of cheating by veteran players — that [the researcher] came to call this “the devil’s game.”
While senior abuse at the hands of younger people is a fairly well-known problem that responsible senior care services attempt to prevent, the problem of seniors bullying seniors is a lot more difficult to deal with. When the seniors themselves are bullying and harassing each other, many staff overseeing senior centers may feel limited in their ability to deal with the problem.
When you are caring for an older family member who regularly attends senior center activities, visit the center for yourself and see what anti-bullying measures the center deploys. A responsible senior center will have staff trained in preventing bullying.
Also, talk to your older loved one about their experiences at the senior center. Many people -of any age- are ashamed to admit to being bullied if asked directly. Encourage communication about the issue and of course, also keep an eye out for warning signs of physical or mental abuse.
Home Health Care Services in Philadelphia Can Ensure Your Loved One’s Safety
Philadelphia senior services can provide in-home care and support that can keep your older family members away from places where bullying is occurring. Neighborly Home Care has staff specifically trained to protect senior citizens, both physically and mentally. Our professionals offer part and full-time home health care services, including transportation to and from appointments or other errands.
To learn more about the benefits of senior in-home health care services, contact Neighborly Home Care today.