Seniors Bullying Seniors – A Growing Problem

As the number of older adults grows, it appears that bullying among seniors is becoming

a national problem. When the Akron Beacon Journal hosted a call-in program about

bullying in northern Ohio, the number of seniors who dialed in revealed the increasing

problem. One older couple said they were trapped in their homes because of harassment

from bullying neighbors. A woman in an Arizona who moved into an age-restricted

community stated that she was bullied by other residents who blocked her from sitting at

card tables and at the community pool.

Social workers, senior center officials, and others who work with older adults say the

problem of bullying among seniors is becoming more common as the retirement

population increases and more seniors enter care homes and retirement communities.

While statistics are not formally tracked, it is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of older

adults in senior settings experience some type of abuse from fellow residents.

As a geriatric social worker for over 18 years, I have seen bullying firsthand in older

adult communities and at senior centers. It appears the mean kids that were in school are,

as we get older, in some cases still around. It is unfortunate that as some adults age, they

feel more vulnerable. Conversely, while some adjust positively, others may develop

destructive behaviors that they take out on their peers in the form of bullying.

Many organizations involved with seniors have a “code of conduct” policy that bans

yelling, obscene language, and other verbal abuse. Some programs have seniors sign a

code of conduct that states that all members will be treated with consideration, respect

and recognition of their dignity.

Another way to ensure that seniors are not bullied is to convey a clear expectation about

what kind of behavior is appropriate and to display an all-around culture where bullying

is unacceptable. According to the ombudsman coordinator in central Phoenix, ignoring

bullies is a good strategy. His staff often coaches older adults on how to handle snubs and

aggression by fellow residents. “Sometimes, the best thing to do is just find someone

else to have a meal with,” he said.

When researching communities, be sure to ask if the community has a policy for peer to

peer bullying, and if not, encourage them to consider implementing such a policy. Many

companies, like Always Best Care Senior Services, are dedicated to the principles of

dignity, respect and kindness. If you would like more information on finding a

community that reflects these principles, contact a Care Coordinator at any of the

individually owned and operated Always Best Care Senior Services offices located

throughout the country. To find the Always Best Care office nearest you, please visit

www.alwaysbestcare.com.

Tonja Edelman, M.S.W.

Franchise Operations Trainer

Always Best Care Senior Services