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| Nam Tai Center where Chinese senior citizens gather, although many like them may not be respected as they once were |
In Hawaii, where a large contingent of Chinese reside, elders will sometimes talk about how the younger generation doesn't offer the respect to their seniors that once was an essential part of Asian culture. After living in Hawaii and working as a counselor there for many years, I listened to these elders who believe they are neglected by younger family members. New research substantiates their concerns and raises issues about elder abuse in the Chinese community as it does for other ethnic groups.
The Rush University Medical Center reports mistreatment of Chinese adults is pervasive and underreported. The mistreatment is described as being psychological abuse and neglect.
The recent report on the mistreatment of Chinese-American seniors was recently published in the Journal of Aging and Health and led by Dr. XinQi Dong, a geriatrician and researcher at Rush University Medical Center. It is one of several studies done on this subject. For years these problems were hidden because of the practice of saving face, or not disclosing to outsiders any problems in the family. During the present research the elders, according to reports, willingly discussed their problems. Some of these include food deprivation, neglecting physical care and deceiving parents out of their savings.
Dong says, "Instead of shying away in our focus group interviews, older adults were vocal about their interests in these topics and their desire to find out proven ways to improve the situation, including how to report cases of elder mistreatment."
The National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse reinforces the finding as it tells us the treatment of elders is impacted by culture. How people immigrated to the United States, their religious beliefs, the role seniors play in family life, and what type of conduct is considered abusive are among the factors that are involved in elder abuse.
Cultural norms and relationships affect how people view their elders. The non productive family member may be seen as less worthy and unable to assume responsibility for his/her role in the family group. For some individuals this means family members take charge of financial matters without the senior's permission. This may take place in an aggressive manner that is physical or psychological. . The Women's Health and Education Center maintains cultural norms are critical for education and prevention of elder abuse.
Economic conditions are also a major factor in elder abuse among ethnic groups where financial hardships mean the senior's rights and needs may be ignored.
Elder abuse is widespread across a variety of ethnic groups. The Chinese, like other communities, is said to have elders at risk. Experts maintain social programs must address this and not assume the respect for elders continues in the Chinese culture of today.
