Crimes Against the Elderly, Essay Example

When it comes to the elderly population in our communities, we must pay extra close attention that their age is not being exploited as a factor to attract criminals. It is quite sad, but in this present day, there are many who commit various crimes against the elderly because they cannot fight back as well as those of us who are healthy or younger.

Crimes against the elderly would be defined as any kind of financial, domestic, or other victimization committed toward someone who is considered to be elderly and is oftentimes not mentally aware they are being taken advantage of.

Those financial crimes committed would be things such as scams or crooked telemarketers who con the older population into giving away their money with promises of earning more or with the promise of helping a group of people. Many times, unfortunately, the family is victimizing the elderly person if there is a great deal of money involved.

Domestic crimes would be any crimes which involved the physical abuse of elderly persons, in or out of a nursing home situation. This can apply to family members or those hired to help with daily tasks. Because the elderly bruise easily and have fragile skin, they must be handled with extreme care. It is easy to forget this and once bruises begin to appear, questions will be asked.

The important thing for us to remember is that it is our job as citizens and younger people to help take care of the elderly. They need us and it is our responsibility to make sure they are being taken care of, not being victimized, and having their final days or months made as happy and peaceful as possible.