CLINICIAN INSIGHT ON INJURY CHARACTERISTICS SUGGESTIVE OF PHYSICAL ELDER MISTREATMENT

摘要

INTRODUCTION: Physical elder abuse can be difficult to identify and substantiate, particularly if victims are physically or cognitively unable to report the abuse. Although recent work has progressed the field, the field remains underdeveloped compared to other family violence (FV) fields. The purpose of this study is draw upon the expertise of FV experts to identify injury characteristics suggestive of physical elder mistreatment.METHODS: Data were collected from physically-abused Adult Protective Services (APS) clients (n=52) and a comparison group of non-abused elders (n=97). Physical exams were conducted to identify injuries and collect data on their diagnosis, location, and characteristics. FV reviewed data and commented on whether they believed injuries were attributable to abuse. Content analysis was used to analyze clinician comments to identify injury characteristics suggestive of abuse.RESULTS: Injury location was commonly cited in clinician abuse determinations with those occurring in protected areas being deemed highly suggestive of abuse, as were injuries to the ear, torso, and neck. Defensive injuries were often attributed to the upper extremities. Among individuals with multiple injuries, clinicians also considered injury planes and healing stages, such that those on multiple planes and in multiple stages of healing were suggestive of abuse.CONCLUSION/IMPLICATIONS: Study implications are applicable to all aging service providers. Elders presenting with injuries to protected or defensive areas, over multiple planes, and in multiple stages of healing may be victims of physical elder mistreatment. If abuse is suspected, providers may contact local APS or law enforcement for assistance with intervention and investigation.