Interpersonal Violence: a Review of Elder Abuse

Purpose We review the underappreciated problem of elder abuse with a focus on what trauma surgeons need to know. Because of its prevalence, it is important that clinicians understand types of elder abuse, risk factors in patient and perpetrator, prevention strategies, and the appropriate referral and treatment of potential victims of elder abuse. Recent Findings Elder abuse affects at least 10% of older individuals in the USA. Despite much effort to address the problem via legal and societal approaches, data to support particular programs are poor. And even with extensive efforts, the utility of established prevention strategies or existing screening tools to identify victims of elder abuse in the acute care setting has yet to be established. Summary Elder abuse is a public health problem. As a society, we have only begun to define the extent of the problem. Healthcare systems have failed to effectively prevent or to accurately screen for, diagnose, and report elder abuse. The next steps include broader public awareness, educational initiatives, improved screening tools, and effective intervention strategies. In the meantime, we as trauma surgeons can be more diligent in reporting.