Elder abuse is a multifaceted and often hidden form of abuse. Based on international prevalence data, between 2–14% of older people in high- or middle-income countries are likely to be victims of abuse or neglect every year. This rate is likely to be higher for older people with disabilities and those living in institutional care settings.
The term ‘elder abuse’ covers a range of harmful behaviours, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse and neglect.
This paper provides an overview of elder abuse in Australia with a focus on the implications of recent research for policy and practice. It reviews recent theoretical literature to explore what it is and how it is defends and draws on recent empirical research to examine its prevalence in community and institutional care settings, its impact, and associated risk factors.
The paper also summarises current initiatives and policy frameworks that aim to prevent and address elder abuse and explores the emerging evidence for effective or promising practices that respond to the needs of older adults at risk of abuse. The paper concludes with future directions for research, policy, and practice.
:format():fill())
:format():fill())
:format():fill())
:format():fill())
:format():fill())