ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the definitions and prevalence of elder abuse and discusses the research regarding age-related risk factors, as well as the characteristics and relationships that increase the probability of abuse, to better understand the dynamics and special needs of elderly victims. In the United States, the National Center on Elder Abuse and the National Elder Abuse Incidence Study have standardized the definition as physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial or material exploitation, emotional or psychological abuse, neglect and self-neglect, and abandonment. Individual risk factors associated with aging could be attributed to the prevalence of victimization. Ironically, many perpetrators of elder abuse are persons who depended on the abused elderly for housing and financial support. Cultural and social factors in respective ethnic groups also affect attitudes about abuse and help-seeking behavior. As our understanding of elder abuse evolves, there is a need for sophisticated training for professionals and paraprofessionals.
