Prevention and early identification of elder abuse

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gerontology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Elder abuse is a pervasive public health issue.
• It is significantly underreported and underdetected.
• Vulnerable older adults face threats to health, quality of life, and survival.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the growing problem of elder abuse.
• To identify key obstacles in protecting the aging population.
• To emphasize the necessity of addressing these challenges.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of the current literature on elder abuse.
• It identifies societal and clinical barriers to detection and prevention.
• It synthesizes information on the impact of abuse on older adults.

Main Results:

• Elder abuse poses a significant threat to the well-being of older adults.
• Obstacles include ageism, inadequate geriatric training, and insufficient clinical screening.
• These factors contribute to underreporting and underdetection.

Conclusions:

• Overcoming barriers like ageism and improving geriatric training are essential.
• Enhanced screening practices in clinical settings are necessary.
• Addressing these challenges is vital for diminishing elder abuse and its negative health outcomes.