ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses definitions, exploring some of the early definitions of abuse and the problems of utilising these. Johnson’s (1991) definition, which, it is suggested, is likely to be useful to practitioners, is then focused on. It explores what constitutes abuse, initially identifying the different types and exploring what is considered to be abuse within each of these categories. The chapter briefly explores the theories on why abuse occurs. It is clearly recognised that the attempts to define the abuse of older people have been fraught with problems and have engendered difficulties, in research, policy development and practice. In the USA, Pillemer and Finkelhor identified the need to carry out a large-scale, random sample survey to ascertain the amount and nature of maltreatment of older people. The presence of external stresses, such as financial problems, may act as mediators in leading to maltreatment. Social isolation has been found to be present in circumstances where abuse occurs.
