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Physician's Perspective: Elder Abuse and Neglect Over 25 Years

NCJ Number
230264
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 22 Issue: 1-2 Dated: January-June 2010 Pages: 94-104
Author(s)
James G. O'Brien, M.D.
Date Published
January 2010
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article examines physicians reporting of elder abuse.
Abstract
Twenty-five years of involvement with elder abuse and neglect has yielded mixed results. The contribution by physicians to elder abuse, in contrast with child abuse, has been very limited. Physicians, despite being in an advantaged position to intervene, lag behind other professionals in reporting. Potential remedies include identification of abuse as a syndrome to allow for reimbursement, increased education and research funding, and a greater advocacy role by physician organizations. Table and references (Published Abstract)