Institutional Dimensions

Abstract

The previous chapter looked at elder abuse in relation to family violence in more general terms. Notwithstanding this perspective, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that there are a range of environments in which elder abuse and neglect are found. This depends, in part of course, as we have seen in Chapter 1, on the types of definition of abuse that have been adopted and the forms of abuse under scrutiny. Traditionally, considerations concerning elder abuse have focused on either abuse found within the domiciliary setting (most often the elderly person’s own home) or institutional abuse (usually located within some form of residential or nursing home setting). There have also been numerous scandals within the National Health Service (NHS) continuing care sector, including services for people with mental health impairments, learning disabilities and services for older people (Martin, 1984; DOH, 1992; Kingston and Brammer, 1997). The range of abuse and neglect found encompasses acts and omissions, due to either the regime within the institution or abuse directed at an individual in that setting, from a relative, paid carer or indeed another resident.