Elder Abuse in Residential Long-Term Care: An Update to the 2003 National Research Council Report

• NCJ Number: 246450
• Journal: Journal of Applied Gerontology Dated: July 2013 Pages: 1-37
• Author(s): Nicholas Castle; Jamie C. Ferguson-Rome; Jeanne A. Teresi
• Date Published: July 2013
• Length: 37 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2010-IJ-CX-0023
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical); Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

A synthesis of the last decade of literature on elder abuse in residential long-term care (i.e., Nursing Homes and Assisted Living) is discussed.

Abstract

A synthesis of the last decade of literature on elder abuse in residential long-term care (i.e., Nursing Homes and Assisted Living) is discussed. Presented are definitions of abuse, theoretical and conceptual models, prevalence rates of abuse, outcomes and costs, and sources of abuse. The synthesis represents an update to the literature in the influential 2003 National Research Council report. The authors identified many of the same issues and concerns existed that were surfaced in this prior report. Many theoretical and conceptual models need further elaboration. Conflicting definitions of abuse are pervasive. Rates of abuse are generally inaccurate, and probably under-reported. However, the authors also identified progress in many areas. An increase in empirical studies that exist in this area (although very few in Assisted Living). Other forms and types of abuse have also been identified as important, such as resident-to-resident abuse. These areas are discussed, along with potential suggestions for additional research. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.