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

Types of Substance Abuse-Related Elder Abuse

Substance abuse has long been associated with family violence. This can take several forms. The perpetrator of elder abuse may have the substance abuse problem, or the older adult may have the substance abuse problem. In some cases, both parties misuse alcohol, illicit drugs, or medications. In all cases, substance abuse is part of the psychodynamic in the relationship. Elder abuse associated with substance abuse can entail physical, emotional, or financial abuse, neglect, or medication misuse.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is more likely when the victim or perpetrator is intoxicated. The injuries often are more serious as well. ref

Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is likely to take the form of humiliation, degradation, and threats.

Financial Abuse

Someone with an addiction will need to ensure a steady supply of drugs or alcohol and will go to any means to get it. Theft and fraud are common. Older adults with alcohol problems often have cognitive impairment, making them easy targets for financial abuse.

Medication Misuse

Medication abuse and misuses usually takes one of the following forms:ref

• Withholding necessary and/or prescribed medication
• Overmedicating
• Giving nonprescribed or over-the-counter medication to chemically restrain an older person