Tia Juana will cheerfully provide advice for anyone that asks. Just mail your questions to “Ask Tia Juana” at PO Box 8, Van Horn, Texas 79855. All questions will remain anonymous unless there is a chance for extortion. Disclaimer: Tia Juana is not a licensed counselor or therapist and none of the advice should be considered professional.
Dear Tia,
I am good friends with a lady who has an elderly father who is quite ill. They hired someone to help out with his care since he requires 24/7 care. I have long suspected that his caretaker is not as caring as the family thinks, and I suspect that he is even mistreated at times. It makes me physically ill to think that this is happening, but I don’t want to stick my nose where it doesn’t belong. What is my duty to help?
Disgusted
Dear Disgusted,
You are not alone. Elder abuse is more common than you think, but unfortunately, it is not as widely reported to authorities because many times, the abuser is a family member, and the abused person does not want anyone to know, or is afraid that she will be alone. However, if you truly believe that there is abuse or even negligence, it is your moral duty to help the most vulnerable. Call Adult Protective Services and tell them what you have seen or suspect. You can remain anonymous. Don’t just ignore your suspicions, speak for someone who can’t your cold has lasted for months! Good luck!
