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National Elder Abuse Incidence Study

NCJ Number
184728
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Dated: 2000 Pages: 29-32
Author(s)
Chris Phillipson Ph.D.
Date Published
2000
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper examines one aspect of the findings of the National Elder Abuse Incidence Study (NEAIS), neglect and self-neglect.
Abstract
NEAIS does a valuable service in highlighting the significance of neglect and self-neglect in old age. Of the nearly 71,000 incident reports, as substantiated by Adult Protective Services (APS), nearly one in two (49 percent) are cases of neglect. In addition, there were another 44,168 incidents of self-neglecting elders (equivalent to the combined total for reports of psychological, emotional, and financial abuse). Of those experiencing neglect, one in two were 80 and older; over two-thirds had annual incomes below $10,000; and there was also a high degree of mental impairment. Difficulties with self-care were especially striking in those who were self-neglecting; 93 percent had some difficulty caring for themselves; three-quarters were judged to be suffering some degree of confusion. Neglect and self-neglect were also prominent in the sentinel reports. Sixty percent of the neglected elderly were 80 years or older, compared to 19 percent of the general elderly population. The confirmation of neglect as a major dimension of maltreatment raises significant social policy issues. Family responsibility is important; children and spouses are culpable as research demonstrates; however, social and structural factors must also be taken into account. Inequalities of access to care among the elderly must be addressed, along with the persistence of significant poverty among older people. Maltreatment has historical roots in impoverished and divided societies. 8 references

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