Abuse of The Elderly- BBC Panorama investigates

2013-06-20

It is an undeniable fact that the majority of developed nations are experiencing an increase in ageing populations and falling birth rates. In some countries, like Italy, it is normal for three generations, grandchildren, parents and grandparents to live either in the same “apartment block” or very close to each other. On the other hand, in the UK, for example, the family is not as close-knit and families are usually dispersed geographically and sometimes emotionally. As a result elderly relatives are either left to fend for themselves or are forced to move into care homes, it is the exception for their families to look after them not the rule.

There is a strong emotional reason for proposing this issue, the recent death of my grandmother, affectionately known as Nana by my family. She insisted on staying at home as long as she could, even when it became difficult, eventually she had to be moved to a nursing home where she spent her last months.

I would wonder why she was so adamant that her twilight years should be spent in her home and not a place called a home. Why do you think this would be so? Maybe it was the familiarity, security and tranquillity your own abode offers and the growing infamous reputation “care homes” are getting.

This BBC video looks at one example of an elderly woman, her daughter and the so called care home she was in.

Please watch the video and answer the following comprehension questions.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Vt-VyoUFG4

Questions about the video:

1. What led the daughter to take investigative measures into her own hands?

2. What did she do and what did she discover?

3. In what ways was she abused?

4. How did her daughter act on the evidence?

5. In what ways was her daughter “slapped” in the face by the authorities and care home?

6. What was the final outcome?

Your opinion:

1. Could you describe the situation of elderly care in Japan and how it compares to that of the UK and Italy?

2. Would you send an elderly parent to a care home?

3. Where would you like to spend your twilight years?

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