1. How to identify elder abuse and neglect in the family
Jill Manthorpe
Professor of Social Work
King’s College London

2. Identification: steps in England
Hidden populations
(see UK Study of Abuse and Neglect of Older People)
The risk factors for neglect appear to be:
• being female
• aged 85 and over
• suffering bad/very bad health & depression
But probably:
• already in receipt of, or in touch with, services

3. Older people may be the ‘perpetrators’
In the UK prevalence study (1):
half of those who had been neglected or abused by their partner (51%); a similar proportion by other family (49%) (respondents could mention more than one person)
Spouse or partner most common perpetrator for neglect (70%) and interpersonal abuse (57%)
Other family most common for financial abuse (54%)
(1) Report available from:

4. Challenges in identification & response
Hidden and Secret
Stigma and Shame
Definitions inexact
Professional lack of confidence & skills
Limited alternatives
Counting referrals to services

5. Responses New legal provisions Service development
Like Mental Capacity Act 2005 – ‘wilful neglect’ & ‘mistreatment’
Better access to justice - giving evidence
Service development
Government guidance & revision planned
Development of practice experience & expertise
Better support for family carers

6. Involvement of older people and their organisations
Publicity - balancing fear with self-protection
Pressure group activity – support & fundraising & helpline
Local activity & involvement
Willingness to tell stories
Participating in research
Key body: Action on Elder Abuse
but also Dignity Champions

7. concluding comments