Elder Abuse May Be Reduced Through Support of Social Groups

Elder Abuse Risk Factors

March 21, 2003 — Researchers at the Rand Corporation and the University of Michigan recently studied the risk factors for elder abuse among seniors living independently or with family or friends (J Am Geriatr Soc 2003 Jan; 51(1): 24-31). The study group consisted of 701 seniors aged 60 and over who used home and community–based senior services in Michigan between November 1996 and October 1997. They completed the Minimum Data Set for Home Care assessment, a standard measurement of an elder’s physical and mental health, and social support system.

Elder Abuse Measurements

Nurses and social workers assessed the home environment of the seniors. Potential elder abuse was detected through the elderly person’s (1) fear of a family member or caregiver, (2) unexplained injuries, (3) very poor hygiene; and (4) appearance of elder neglect or mistreatment. Signs of physical restraint were also considered, but cases of financial abuse were not followed. (See Learn to Recognize Elder Abuse for further details about recognizing the different types of elder abuse or neglect).

Elder Abuse Linked to Senior’s Poor Social Network

Elder abuse is mainly associated with a poor social network, and secondarily with some characteristics of the senior, the researchers found. Abused elders had a poor social support system, and numerous conflicts with family. They became isolated and often felt lonely. These seniors also had at least one of these characteristics: short-term memory loss, psychiatric illness, and problems with alcohol.

There was no association between elder abuse or elder neglect and age, sex, marital status, or education. This finding is in line with other studies that have shown that elderly people of all backgrounds may be vulnerable to abuse, which often goes undetected (Mt Sinai J Med 1996 Mar; 63(2): 97-100). However, according to other reports, the typical elder abuse victim is a white woman over 80 years of age who has multiple physical and cognitive problems (Patient Care, October 30 2000, Melinda Young).

At Brayton Purcell, we are concerned about all forms of elder abuse and elder neglect, whether they take place in a the senior’s home or at a long–term care facility. Should you have a question about the legal rights of an elderly relative, please feel free to contact us. We are experienced in all areas of elder abuse law, including nursing home violations and inadequate pain management issues.

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Risk Factors for Elder Abuse

• Fear of a family member
• Unexplained injuries
• Poor hygiene
• Neglected appearance
• Poor social support
• Conflicts with family
• Isolated and lonely

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No Link Between Elder Abuse and:

• Age
• Sex
• Marital status
• Education

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