Table of Contents

About This Course

1. Introduction to Elder Abuse
2. The Basics of Elder Abuse
3. Substance Use and Other Risk Factors
4. Screening and Assessment
5. Intervention and Treatment
6. Preventing Elder Abuse

Supplements
Case Studies
References
Resources

Out of the Shadows
Uncovering Substance Use and Elder Abuse

Module 2 Pages 1 - Objectives2 - The Problem of Elder Abuse and Neglect3 - Age-Related Vulnerabilities4 - Defining Abuse and Neglect5 - Who Are the Victims?6 - Characteristics of Victims7 - Who Are the Abusers?8 - Characteristics of Abusers9 - Where Does Elder Abuse Occur?10 - Long-Term Care Settings11 - Why Does Elder Abuse Occur?12 - Theories of Elder Abuse13 - Consequences of Abuse and Neglect14 - Consequences for Abusers15 - Need for Data and Research16 - Summary17 - Case Study18 - Quiz

Why Does Elder Abuse Occur?

No one explanation exists for elder abuse. A combination of factors may contribute to the problem. In addition to characteristics of the caregiver (such as addiction to alcohol or personal problems) and the victim (such as physical or cognitive impairments), other factors can affect the degree and duration. Within the family setting, these include:

Family Dynamics

A history of violence in a family or strained family relationships, family stresses, financial pressures, and isolation may trigger abuse. Domestic violence may continue into later years.

Cultural and Societal Issues

Cultural Values

Society's preoccupation with youth can send the message that older people are not valued and elder abuse is tolerated.

Beliefs

The belief that behaviors within the home, including abuse, are "family matters" fosters an environment that tolerates elder abuse. Other belief systems may diminish the rights of some family members, especially women.

Communication Barriers

Family structure, cultural and generational values, and language barriers may affect the willingness of older people and other family members to communicate with people considered "outsiders." Health care practitioners must approach elder abuse prevention, intervention, and treatment with cultural competence. Communication must convey the universal message that abuse is illegal and the rights of individuals will be protected.

Situational Factors

Within the residential long-term care setting, researchers agree situational factors contributing to elder abuse include:

• Staff shortages and stressful working conditions, including mandatory overtime
• Staff burnout
• Poor staff training on handling challenging behaviors among residents, such as aggression ref