57 SENIOR ABUSE AWARENESS continued Factors in abuse by a family member: • A period of high stress • Substance abuse • Mental health problems • Reduced income • Reduced mobility • The death of a loved one Sometimes, abuse by a family member may be: • Part of a cycle of violence. • A way of getting even with someone who used to be abusive. Factors in abuse by staff in nursing homes, hospitals, group homes or community care facilities: • Lack of training • Poor health • Low pay • Lack of supervision and mentoring • Understaffing • Personal problems that affect the way staff provides services to older people in their care • Frustration Sometimes, the abuser may not understand that the way they are treating the older person is abusive. There is no excuse for abuse! The personal circumstances of the caregiver or family member is not an excuse. If you are a caregiver and feel overly stressed, call Home Care and Support for help. •West Prince 902-859-8730 • East Prince 902-888-8440 • Queens 902-368-4790 • Kings (Souris) 902-687-7096 • Kings (Montague) 902-838-0786 Why does abuse happen?
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