Elder Abuse

Research Paper # 100890

Aging > Gerontology
Criminology
Medical and Health > Public Health Issues

Elder Abuse

This paper discuses elder abuse, which is considered one of the fastest growing areas of serious concern for the elderly.

3,590 words () | 14 sources | APA | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, whether it is physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse or whether it is neglect, abandonment or financial exploitation, abuse results in harm to the older individual. The author points out that, as people live longer, they tend to become more and more dependent on others and may not have a good support system within the community . The paper relates that lifelong patterns of domestic violence are often reversed when the parent or the formerly dominating spouse becomes less powerful and is now the victim instead of the abuser. The author points out that research has discovered those aged persons with cognitive impairments, such as dementia and depression, are at greater risks for abuse. The paper stresses that taking legal action through social service agencies is necessary to prevent elder abuse.

From the Paper:

"The Northamptonshire study revealed the prevalence of dementia among the older men and women who were abused. The ability of caregivers to cope varied with the severity of the dementia and whether or not the caregiver considered that he or she was caring as they had always done, caring for physical needs, or dealing with a mentally ill partner. For many the use of formal and informal services was minimal, sometimes through ignorance of available services, sometimes through choice where career and partner deliberately limited outside contacts. These are situations where abuse can easily occur."

Sample of Sources Used:

Aitken, L., & Griffin, G. (1996). Gender Issues in Elder Abuse. London: Sage Publications, Inc.
Boia, L., & Selous, T. (Trans.). (2004). Forever Young: A Cultural History of Longevity. London: Reaktion Books, Ltd.
Draper, B., Brodaty, H., Low, L., Richards, V., Paton, H., & Lie, D. (2002). Self-Destructive Behaviors in Nursing Home Residents. JAGS, 50, 354-358.
Dyer, C. B., & Goins, A. M. (2000). The Role of the Interdisciplinary Geriatric Assessment in Addressing Self-Neglect of the Elderly. Generations, 24, 23-28.
Egendorf, L. K., (Ed.). (2002). An Aging Population: Opposing Viewpoints. San Diego, CA: Greenhaven Press, Inc.