Every year you hear about the increase in elder abuse. It’s not just in your backyard; it is a global issue. Do you think it is because bigger populations are aging and nursing homes cannot keep up with the needs? I think it is this, as well as other things like:
Elder abuse is hidden: Be it cultural differences or weak legal protections
Understaffing
Underfunding for the booming aging population
The see something, say nothing culture (not unlike the clergy abuse, no one wants to talk about)
Lack of Professionals studying the epidemic
There are many different types of law you can practice, but it takes a passionate advocate who is angry and wants to take on a cause like this. Too many times, it just seems too hard to tackle.
But, we know this is also a generation who cannot believe the atrocities that are happening to our respected elders and can no longer let it go on.
The Crisis in Nursing Homes: A Global Problem
Asia’s Silent Epidemic
I do not think this is just a problem in Asia; I think it is silent all around the world. Getting statistics to track in Asia is difficult, but some studies suggest:
20–40% of elders in China experience psychological or financial abuse (Help Age International)
Only 1 in 24 cases are reported in countries like India due to family shame (UNFPA Asia).
Did you know that 40% of Japan’s population will be 65+ by 2060 (WHO Asia), yet elder abuse often remains hidden due to cultural stigma, and the lack of specialized elder abuse laws in the legal systems in Asia does not entice people to report it.
This needs to change.
I think a thoughtful exchange of information from country to country could help attract the right-minded people who can learn what is needed to become an educated advocate and take up the fight.
Perhaps your University in the U.S.A. could enter a partnership through AIP and allow a student to become a legal intern in Asia and join the battle with two perspectives.
In fact, the sharing of information, especially in our legal internship opportunities, can be so valuable on both sides of the ocean.
Building a Foundation
Commit to your purpose, make a plan, and find those who can support your journey:
- Education:
Undergraduate Degree: Focus on pre-law, social work, or public health.
Law School: Elder law, medical malpractice, civil rights. etc.
Internships: Work with organizations like the NHLC or AIP.
Global Learning and Co-operation seems the best way forward in this complicated world for nations who are battling the same issues.
As in Asia, statistics in the U.S. are no better:
Over 5 million elders are abused annually in the U.S., with nursing homes among the worst offenders (National Center on Elder Abuse).
South Carolina alone saw a 22% spike in reported violations in 2023 (SC DHEC).
- Skills You’ll Need
Compassion: Victims often struggle to speak up.
A brave heart and tough trial gumption.
Knowledge specific to understanding Elder Abuse and regulatory changes.
Pass the bar exam in your state/country.
Consider Board Certification in Elder Law (optional but prestigious).
Supporting Future Lawyers
- Study in the U.S.
Partner Universities: Schools like the University of South Carolina Law welcome international students and offer elder law studies.
Visa Options: F-1 for studies, OPT for post-grad work with NGOs.
- Take Skills Back to Asia
Japan/Korea: Advocate for stricter care-home regulations.
India/China: Launch nonprofits to educate families on reporting abuse.
- NHLC’s Global Network
Funding: Scholarships for international students.
Connections: Link graduates with NGOs like HelpAge International.
Summer Externships: Work on real NHLC cases in Charleston.
Mentorship: Shadow attorneys investigating neglect claims.
Scholarships for Aspiring Advocates: The NHLC awards $5,000 annual scholarships to law students who:
Demonstrate commitment to elder justice (e.g., via internships, research).
Plan to practice in states with high abuse rates, like South Carolina.
Students who study abroad in Asia(AIP) or attend studies in the US, if you learn something you want to bridge gaps in your home country, the transition can be easy with the support in place at AIP and NHLC. Becoming a nursing home abuse lawyer will be such a fulfilling career and may even help you bring justice and change to the systems!
“Our goal is to train the next generation of warriors for seniors,” says NHLC lead attorney Mark Holloway.
Conclusion
Nursing home Abuse and Elder Abuse won’t stop on their own volition. The root causes are most frequently understaffing and profit over care. Too often, corners are cut to make savings, and too few people are responsible for too many residents. Accountability of staff to report all issues, even minor bullying and petty thefts. Make it uncomfortable to take advantage of any elderly person, especially those who cannot advocate for themselves when they cannot speak or have memory issues.
Join the fight in your country. Advocate for stronger laws like staff-to-resident ratios. Give more protection to whistleblowers and encourage families and other staff to make organizations more accountable to the people they care for and the families and community they are a part of.
Make a global impact! Better and more real-world experiences and more care. You’ll never regret joining this fight, because everyone deserves to be protected.
