Elia Garcia, & Dr. Daniel Sandoval
Elder abuse, perpetrated by caregivers or trusted individuals, harms older individuals through various forms such as physical, emotional, sexual, financial exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. Signs include unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, and financial irregularities. Caregivers may abuse due to stress, financial motives, power dynamics, mental health issues, lack of support, or cultural factors. Stress from caregiving demands can lead to burnout and abusive behavior, exacerbated by lack of support and mental health issues. Control dynamics may also contribute, leading to financial exploitation. Victims may seek restraining orders for protection, which can be temporary or permanent based on evidence presented to the judge. These orders safeguard against abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, offering legal recourse for victims. My research question is, “What factors influence the efficacy of restraining orders in cases of elder abuse, and how can the distribution of these orders be optimized to provide the most effective protection for elderly individuals?” I will be examining the success of restraining orders and their efficacy in combating elder abuse, as well as what factors influence their efficacy. In my preliminary findings, I found a correlation between restraining orders and the reduction of instances of elder abuse, and I am expecting to find information on the process of obtaining restraining orders and their effectiveness.