NCJ Number
185430
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 27 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2000 Pages: 80-88
Date Published
October 2000
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article examines the nature of abuse of the elderly as well as investigative techniques and resources for identifying and addressing such abuse.
Abstract
Elder abuse is a serious problem that others may be hesitant to acknowledge. It can be difficult for others, whether they are family, friends, or neighbors, to imagine that adult children might abuse their elderly parents. Others turn a blind eye to what is going on because the belief still persists that family problems should be worked out within the family. Physical abuse can consist of hitting, choking, pushing and shoving, restraining, burning, rough handling, sexual assault, and locking the elder out of the home. If physical abuse is suspected, officers should examine the elderly victim for physical indicators, such as fractures, bruises or burns, difficult walking or sitting, lacerations, or punctures. When scrutinizing bruises, officers are advised to look for the presence of old and new wounds. Psychological abuse can be difficult to detect. This type of abuse can take the form of verbal harassment; intimidation; threats of punishment that include warnings and put-downs; isolation from friends, family or activities; humiliation; and being infantalized or treated like a child. If mental abuse is suspected, investigators should look for signs of depression; a medical professional can be called in to make a diagnosis. Personality changes also may point to the possibility of psychological abuse. A significant problem for the elderly is the diversion of money from the estate of the elderly by those who have power of attorney and an inheritance at stake. Abuse by neglect is another form of abuse of the elderly. This article offers suggestions for interviewing possible victims of elder abuse as well as the allocation of police resources to address elder abuse.