The Intersections of Elderly Abuse and Domestic Violence in American Samoa

            June 15, 2020 is World Elderly Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD).   American Samoa Alliance against Domestic & Sexual Violence (aka Alliance) and partners across the world will join together to promote education and awareness regarding elderly abuse.  The increased number of senior populations in American Samoa makes it necessary to tackle elder abuse and neglect.   Elderly abuse is another form of domestic violence.  In October 17, 2018 Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga signed into law the American Samoa Administration Bill “Elderly and Disabled Adult Neglect, Abuse and Exploitation Prevention Act”.  As caregivers it is seen to be a source of blessing to take care of our seniors, and this may be the reason why it is not discussed in our families, or homes.  This poses a problem when elderly abuse making it difficult to identify warning signs.  Notably, elders are a vulnerable population that deserves protection, and elderly abuse continues to grow in our homes. 
            According to Territorial Administration Office of Aging (TAOA) Director, Evelyn Satele Lilio, “the most common cases seen (of elder abuse) are self-neglect.”  There is an increased number of senior citizens who are suffering from dementia, and caregivers may not be equipped to care for these elders.  Increased frustration for caregivers happens, and is a real situation.  Frustration can increase as elders become increasingly frail, and are less able to take care of themselves.  Seniors may find themselves not remembering, making them more at risk or defenseless against caregivers. 
            Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, or sexual harm against an older adult it is important to understand tactics used by abusers.  A local advocate shared an incident during a house visit and was surprised to find an elderly woman was tied to a bed as family members went to work.  Samoa News has posted stories of financial stories, where abusers have stolen monies from their parents, or aunts, uncles, constituting elder abuse.  The bill that has been enacted defines actions such as neglect and exploitation of the elderly and disabled as abuse.  Other examples provided during a news interview with Dir Lilio “embezzling, or intentionally mismanaging the assets of the elderly and disabled, committing fraud in obtaining their appointments and failing to provide them care, supervision and services necessary to maintain their mental health.”
            If you are concerned about elder abuse the following are tips to help.  If you’re a caregiver its important you make time for wellness. Caregiving can be stressful and cause burnout.  To decrease stress, use physical exercise, meditation or breathing exercises, or ask a friend to provide support.  If you are a family member or friend of a caregiver, if at all possible, offer to provide needed breaks.  A simple check in to connect with caregiver as well as elder can help to decrease stress.  If you suspect someone is suffering from neglect, physical abuse, please share your concerns with caregivers.  For immediate attention, please contact 911. To learn more, you can connect with Territorial Administration on Aging Office, at 633-1251 or contact American Samoa Alliance at 699-0272 and we will refer you to an advocate for help and support.  
written by: Jennifer Tofaeono