Defining elder abuse

Abstract

The definition of elder abuse is at a formative stage in British social policy. This paper examines four existing definitions of elder abuse from policy and socio-legal perspectives. The development of the definitions is reviewed as part of the process of problem formation within the context of the social construction of old age in British social policy. Central themes and terms contained in the definitions are analysed in detail from legal and policy standpoints. This leads to an assessment of the assumptions that might lie behind the definitions and a consideration of the implications of inclusion within a given definition. Finally, the definitions are compared to the Law Commission recommendations to form the basis of public law protection of vulnerable adults.

Key Words:

• elder abuse
• definitions
• protection
• Law Commission