Final answer:
The statement is false; dementia patients have an increased risk of abuse by their caregivers. Risk factors for elder abuse include caregiver depression, high stress, and dependency on the elder. Adequate caregiver support and training can help reduce the risk of abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that dementia patients have a decreased risk of being abused by their caregivers is False. Dementia patients indeed have an increased risk of abuse, including various forms of elder abuse. Caregivers may unintentionally or intentionally inflict harm, and the risk factors for such abuse include a history of depression in the caregiver, low job satisfaction among paid caregivers, inexperience, high stress levels, and dependency on the elder. Certain circumstances, such as the caregiver having their own demands or living with the dependent elder, can also contribute to the risk. It is significant to recognize that caregiver burnout and a lack of support can escalate the potential for mistreatment.
Research has shown that caregivers with personal issues, such as a history of being abused themselves, can be more likely to perpetrate abuse. Factors like verbal aggression, low education, and psychiatric disorders further contribute to an environment where abuse is more likely to occur. Therefore, supporting caregivers with adequate training, resources, and mental health support is essential in reducing the likelihood of elder abuse, especially among those caring for dementia patients.
To address the question directly related to elder abuse prevalence, studies suggest that approximately one in ten elderly individuals have experienced some form of abuse, and these cases are often underreported. The abuse is most commonly perpetrated by caregivers rather than strangers, spouses, or lawyers.