[Elder abuse: Twenty years later].

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Social Sciences
• Public Health

Background:

• Elder abuse is a significant public health issue with diverse manifestations.
• Understanding subtypes like neglect and self-neglect is crucial for effective intervention.
• Specific populations, including those in geriatric institutions, individuals with dementia, and LGBTQ+ elders, face unique vulnerabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively analyze the multifaceted nature of elder abuse.
• To define and differentiate between various subtypes of elder abuse, including neglect and self-neglect.
• To explore the prevalence and specific contexts of elder abuse within geriatric institutions, among people with dementia, and within the LGBTQ+ community.

Main Methods:

• The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing a narrative model for analysis.
• Literary examples from authors such as Irving, Ford, and Lodge are used to exemplify abuse situations.
• The analysis synthesizes existing literature and theoretical frameworks on elder abuse.

Main Results:

• Elder abuse manifests in various forms, with neglect and self-neglect being prominent subtypes.
• Geriatric institutions, individuals with dementia, and LGBTQ+ individuals represent high-risk groups requiring targeted attention.
• Narrative exemplars effectively highlight the complexities and nuances of elder abuse scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Elder abuse is a complex phenomenon requiring a nuanced understanding of its subtypes and contextual factors.
• Interventions must be tailored to address the specific vulnerabilities of at-risk populations.
• Further research utilizing diverse methodologies is needed to combat elder abuse effectively.