Elder abuse

Only recently has elder abuse become recognized as a widespread problem--possibly almost as prevalent as child abuse. As with other forms of abuse, mistreatment of elderly patients may be difficult to recognize. Adding to the problem is that often when abuse is suspected, admission may be difficult to elicit from the patient because of embarrassment or fear of reprisal. Dr Bourland offers a helpful overview of elder abuse, including causes, profiles of victim and abuser, clues to identifying abuse, and steps to take when abuse is suspected.