1. ELDER ABUSE
Dr C Kotzé
Dept of Psychiatry
2012

2. DEFINITION:
Exerting any physical, mental or financial power over elderly that
Infringes on the rights of a person

3. Physical Sexual TYPES ABUSE SYMPTOMS Bruises Cuts / abrasions
Fractures
Sexual
Difficulty walking / standing
Bruising
Bleeding
Always look for these signs and symptoms when dealing with the elderly

4. Emotional Financial TYPES ABUSE SYMPTOMS Anxious Withdrawal Depression
Unusual bank balances
Illegible signature
Accounts not paid
Always look for these signs and symptoms when dealing with the elderly

5. Infringement of human rights
TYPES ABUSE
SYMPTOMS
Neglect
Untreated illnesses
Malnutrition
Dehydration
Infringement of human rights
Access to pension
Access to treatment
Disrespect

6. Low socio-economic status
RISK FACTORS - VICTIM
Age >80
Female
Low socio-economic status
Physical / Mental impairment – need help with daily activities
Dementia with behavioural disturbance
Draw attention that potential victims can be identified early if risk factors are evident

7. RISK FACTORS – VICTIM
Multiple medications
Substance abuse (self)
Poor social / family support
Communication deficit
History of abuse

8. RISK FACTORS: ABUSERS/CAREGIVERS
Female
Poor social / family support
Stress: Work, marriage, financial, health
Lack of help or training
Substance abuse
Draw attention that potential abusers can be identified early if risk factors are evident

9. RISK FACTORS: ABUSERS/CAREGIVERS
Poor previous relationship with elder
They isolate / restrict elderly
Poor mental or physical health
Low self esteem
Poor impulse control

10. MANAGEMENT
Detailed history &
clinical exam
Good note keeping
Attend to injuries and other complications
Remove from abusive situation
Get support for patient and family

11. ACTION YOU MUST TAKE D.G Social Development (Welfare) must be informed
Older Persons Act 13,2006
EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE

12. Options Police Department 10111
Practically: Social worker at local office notified or police
HEAL: (Halt Elder Abuse Line
Protection Order from Magistrate
(Domestic Violence Act, 116 of 1998)
EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE

13. End
Thank You
EMPHASIZE THAT IF ABUSE IS SUSPECTED MUST NOTIFY OR GUILTY OF AN OFFENCE