Shattered Lives: Pamela Atwood on Caring for the Elderly

Pamela Atwood returns to Shattered Lives to speak more about demenita and the elderly when they become caregivers to someone who was abusive towards them.

When the survivor becomes the caregiver for their abuser

Not all elderly are sweet little old ladies or gentlemen - some were abusive to their children or spouses. As they age, they are just as likely to develop chronic conditions which need supervision or even hands on care as other seniors. It is not UNcommon for the person they abused to become the caregiver. With 15 million Americans caring for a person with dementia, you can bet a certain percentage had abuse in their prior (and sometimes current) relationships. One research study of 1000 subjects determined 28% of the adult children had been abused or neglected by the parents. 

• It's okay to/tips for setting boundaries
• Legal options and resources for care
• Setting and achieving goals for caregiver wellness