NCJ Number
163850
Date Published
1996
Length
19 pages
Annotation
After providing a psychological profile of elderly abuse victims, this chapter then identifies the major causes of elderly abuse and describes primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions that apply to the circumstances of elder mistreatment.
Abstract
Throughout the chapter, examples are provided to emphasize that psychological interventions target not only the identified victim, but also the perpetrator, family, and communities that compose the victim's social environment. Diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders are important components of case management, because mental illness may be prominent as either a cause or a consequence of elder abuse. Because of the profound psychological meaning of elder mistreatment, mental health professionals must consider their own psychological responses as well as those of their clients. Primary interventions aim at preventing elder mistreatment and may be readily integrated into the practices of professionals who offer services to older people. Secondary interventions are designed to minimize harm and distress related to acute events. Social and environmental resources figure prominently in secondary interventions, but supportive psychological measures are an integral part of the interventions used to stabilize abusive relationships. The aim of tertiary interventions is to reduce the risk of subsequent incidents and to ensure the best possible recovery from the psychological, physical, or material injuries that were sustained. Psychoeducational approaches to working with the victim and perpetrator of abuse are most helpful when clients agree on the nature of the problem and on the need for professional help. 1 table and 31 references