Abuse: Elder Abuse

Abstract

Elder abuse conceptually is recognizable by most scholars of gerontological, elder law, and elder policy undertakings. It is so important that in almost every jurisdiction, especially in advanced societies, it has evolved into a topic of great relevance along with the rapid population aging. The roots of a general aversion to almost universal prohibition of acts of elder abuse do not always translate into societal and individual actions which would be categorized within the regulatory, ethical, legal, and societal concepts of what is generally classified as some level of elder abuse. In its obvious forms which generally fall within the construct of physical abuse, it is often self-evident to all observers that elder abuse has occurred. There are many instances of elder abuse that are less self-evident and more subtle that are also identified and construed as elder abuse. These too must be addressed at all levels of society in order to achieve respect for elders and promotion of their quality of life and dignity. This review should help explore the range of definitions, the categories that commonly exist, and the manifestations of elder abuse across a range of societies including those that formally prohibit its existence while acknowledging its existence.