While reading several news articles on the internet, I stumbled upon something that shocked me the most!
Indeed, and you may not have missed it, several interns at a nursing home allegedly abused people with Alzheimer's disease, before broadcasting this act on the social network Snapchat.
Having never heard of Snapchat, I conducted my little investigation with my family and I will explain the principle to you.
It is an application available on mobile phones that allows you to send videos and photos for a maximum of 10 seconds to your friends; once these 10 seconds are over, the photo or video is deleted and it is impossible to view it again.
These three girls aged 16 to 17 were supposed to do a one-week professional training internship at a nursing home in Annet-sur-Marne in Seine-et-Marne. This short training started on Monday, January 18.
What they are accused of is humiliating and filming people with Alzheimer's disease, I quote, "slaps" or "nose pinches"; these are scandalous acts that raise many questions!
First of all, the question of supervising interns: can we leave 17-year-old interns unsupervised?
Personally, this shocks me and I don't think I am the only one; I will be told: "Jeannette, it's due to the lack of staff..."
Yes, maybe, but I think it would be interesting to look into the problem so that such acts do not happen again!
In any case, the classmates of the three interns had the good sense to be outraged by the violence of such acts, and I thank them! They alerted the gendarmerie, which led to the discovery that no less than 33 videos were sent...
The three interns from Seine-et-Marne have been charged with violence in a group with premeditation, dissemination on the Internet of violent scenes, and invasion of privacy. They have been placed under judicial control, the Meaux prosecutor's office announced.
Hoping that this story will raise the alarm among all nursing homes so that this does not happen again!
This whole story is necessarily:
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The psychological consequences of violence against the elderly
Acts of violence against the elderly, particularly those suffering from diseases like Alzheimer's, can have profound and lasting consequences. Here are some observed psychological effects:
- Emotional trauma: Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorders, leading to flashbacks and nightmares.
- Anxiety and depression: The fear of being abused can lead to chronic anxiety and depression in the elderly.
- Social isolation: Victims may withdraw socially, fearing further humiliation or violence.
- Deterioration of cognitive health: Stress and fear can accelerate cognitive decline in dementia patients.
The responsibilities of healthcare facilities
Nursing homes and EPHAD have crucial responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents. Here are some essential measures:
- Staff training: Employees must receive adequate training on respect and dignity for the elderly.
- Increased supervision: It is vital to ensure sufficient supervision of interns and employees to prevent abuse.
- Reporting channels: Establish anonymous reporting systems so that residents and staff can report inappropriate behavior.
- Regular evaluation: Conduct regular assessments of the quality of care and the residents' environment.
The role of society in protecting the elderly
Society as a whole has a role to play in protecting the elderly from abuse. Here are some possible actions:
- Public education: Raise public awareness of the rights of the elderly and forms of abuse.
- Encouragement of vigilance: Encourage community members to be attentive to signs of abuse.
- Support for families: Provide resources and support to families caring for vulnerable elderly individuals.
- Collaboration with authorities: Work with law enforcement and social agencies to report and address cases of abuse.
Initiatives to improve the quality of life for the elderly
Many initiatives can be implemented to improve the quality of life for the elderly, including:
- Recreational programs: Offer adapted recreational activities to stimulate social and cognitive engagement.
- Alternative therapies: Integrate therapies such as music therapy or art therapy to enhance emotional well-being.
- Intergenerational visits: Encourage interactions between young people and the elderly to create bonds and reduce isolation.
- Psychological support: Provide access to mental health professionals to help overcome trauma.