Related Experiment Videos
The neglected elder: a family systems approach.
C Williams-Burgess1, M J Kimball
1Department of Nursing, Saint Anselm College, Manchester, NH 03102-1310.
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
|October 1, 1992
Summary
Elder abuse and neglect are often hidden problems within isolated families, requiring greater public awareness. Understanding the factors contributing to this invisibility is key to addressing elder mistreatment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Work
- Public Health
Background:
- Elder abuse and neglect are significant societal issues, often overlooked due to family isolation and societal emphasis on privacy.
- Vulnerable older adults are frequently hidden from public view, making mistreatment difficult to detect.
Observation:
- Factors contributing to the invisibility of elder abuse include societal emphasis on family privacy, victim reluctance or inability to report, age-related stereotypes, and denial.
- The problem is less prevalent than child maltreatment but remains a critical concern demanding increased public attention.
Findings:
- The article examines the dynamics of elder neglect specifically within the family context.
- It highlights the challenges in identifying and addressing elder mistreatment due to its hidden nature.
Implications:
- Increased public awareness is crucial for combating elder abuse and neglect.
- Further research and community intervention strategies are needed to protect vulnerable older adults from family-related mistreatment.