Pathways Courses - Out of the Shadows

Out of the Shadows
Uncovering Substance Use and Elder Abuse

Module 2: The Basics of Elder Abuse - Page 6 of 18

Current studies show:

Most elder abuse victims are female; however, this gender gap is narrowing. ref
Those most likely to be victimized are people over 75, a rapidly growing subset of the adult population; 40 percent of reported elder abuse cases involve victims over 80. ref
The frailest individuals with the most chronic conditions are more likely to be targeted for abuse and neglect. ref
Recent physical decline or psychological impairment increases dependence on others for many daily needs, thus increasing the risk of abuse or neglect. ref
Older adults who are physically or socially isolated due to a recent divorce or separation, or move to live with a family member are at higher risk for abuse and neglect. Isolation can sometimes be imposed by abusers through tactics such as screening phone calls, mail, and visitors.

Within residential long-term care settings, older adults who are abused may:

Be dependent on staff because of physical and cognitive limitations
Exhibit behavioral difficulties, such as physical aggression, due to neurological changes, memory losses due to disease, or other factors ref