Elder Abuse

Since I finished school and have no “reason” to write consistently, I find that I have writer’s block.  When I sit down to start my blog, I feel like I have nothing to say.  When I pull up some of my writing—nothing flows.  Did school really inspire me to write?  It certainly seems so. I believe we can all learn something from others and I try to find lessons in everything on a daily basis.  Keeping my mind busy/sharp, well I guess that is solely up to me. 

I have been reading a lot lately about Elder Abuse.  Many elderly adults are abused in their own homes, in relatives’ homes, and even in facilities responsible for their care. If you suspect that an elderly person is at risk from a neglectful or overwhelmed caregiver, or being preyed upon financially, it’s important to speak up. Learn to recognize the warning signs of elder abuse, what the risk factors are, and what you can do to prevent and report the problem.

There are many kinds of abuse; they include physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, financial exploitation and health care abuse.

·       Do you know the signs of elder abuse? Here are some general signs. 

The following are warning signs of some kind of elder abuse:

·        Frequent arguments or tension between the caregiver and the elderly person

·        Changes in personality or behavior in the elder 

If you suspect elderly abuse, but aren't sure, look for clusters of the following physical and behavioral signs.  Check out the website below to find out more warning signs. (http://www.helpguide.org/mental/elder_abuse_physical_emotional_sexual_neglect.htm)

What would you do if you thought someone was being abused?  Would you turn away and let it happen?  Could you take the chance and get involved? 

Well, remember the Golden Rule: Do unto others and you want done to you.  Do you want to be put in this situation some day?  Do you want someone to know about it and turn their back on you?  Yeah, I didn’t think so. 

SPEAK UP!!  Save a life.  

Happy New Year - 2013

Welcome 2013

As the old year ends and the new one begins, I reflect on the many things I have learned this past year:

1.   It doesn’t matter what your career, just as long as you have a job.

2.   The economy rules the way we live and how we live it. 

3.   What goes up, doesn’t always come down.  Gas prices, food prices, grocery bills. Airline tickets.

4.   The things that go down, don’t always go back up.  Paychecks, housing market, unemployment rates

5.   True friendship is hard to find.  If you can say you have a true friend.  You are truly blessed.

6.   Follow your dreams and someday they will come true. 

7.   Set goals.  Before you know you have achieved them without realizing it.

8.   Get an education.  No one can take it away from you.

9.   Be prepared for the future because it will be here before you know it.

10.               Like who you are because no one else can like you until you like you.