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Elder abuse : practice issues for physicians
Berg N. , Beaulieu M. , Oudewater M. , Langhendries D. , Giet D.
Rev Med Liege 2014, 69(5-6),382-389Abstract : Elder abuse is frequent (from 4 to 6 % of adults aged 65 + according to WHO). It can take various forms : psychological, financial, violation of rights, neglect and physical. Due to demographic changes, it is expected that the number of cases will increase over coming years. Scientific data show the importance of a systemic analysis of elder abuse situations in order to avoid the simplistic thinking of the “horrible abuser” and the “poor victim”. A multidisciplinary team, including a physician (a general practitioner, or a specialist), is necessary. Physicians can play a role in the prevention, detection and follow up of such cases. In order to detect elder abuse, active and attentive listening is mandatory. When a possibility exists that the older adult is abused, the suspicion should be documented (per example, by using the EASI tool), in order to implement an adequate follow-up. In the French part of Belgium, specialised services can be involved : Respect Seniors (www.respectseniors.be) in Wallonia and the SEPAM d’Infor-Homes in Brussels.
