Forensic evaluation of the elderly

As the "Baby Boomer Generation" matures, it is pre dicted that greater than 70 million Americans >65 years of age will retire over the next decade. The U.S. Census Bureau 2000 reported a 12% rise in this age group from 1990 to 2000. The highest national population percentage increase was demonstrated in elders >85 years mirrored by a 0.1% rise in Kentucky's octogenarians. Because of advances in social programs, nutrition, and medical treatment, Americans are living longer. However, advanced age can be typified by chronic disabilities or illnesses requiring assistance in managing activities of daily living (ADL's). As a consequence, reliance on caregivers from within the family or from private or state supported institutions periodically complicates strained familial relationships and finances. The care of an elder may become suboptimal. Studies show that between 1 and 2 million elder Americans experience some form of maltreatment each year. The Division of Clinical Forensic Medicine (CFM), as part of the Office of the Kentucky Chief Medical Examiner and the University of Louisville Division of Forensic Pathology, provides expert consultation for injury recognition and interpretation in the traumatized elder.