Abstract:

Characteristics of elder abuse & recommendations for treatment are discussed in this 1995 testimony by the President of the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. A brief research review supports a discussion of the problem's background, focusing on classifications & risk factors of victims & perpetrators, ethical dilemmas facing practitioners dealing with victims, & the problem with defining abuse. Elder abuse cases are categorized according to type of mistreatment (physical, psychological, financial, or neglect), victim-perpetrator relationship, gender, & race. Three distinct profiles are described: physical & psychological abuse perpetrators are likely to be financially dependent on the victim; (2) neglect victims are dependent on the perpetrator; & (3) financial abuse victims are generally lonely with few social contacts. Several methods of prevention strategies are examined: coalition building, increased research, implementation of a national reporting system, adequate long-term care, mental health/substance abuse services, public awareness education, elder assertiveness training, caregiver training services, & conflict resolution.