Elder abuse, mental health and later life: Steps towards an understanding

Abstract

In recent years there has been an increased emphasis on violence and abuse within society and in particular the abuse and neglect of older people. It therefore seems appropriate to consider the potential role that issues related to mental health and later life might contribute towards providing a greater understanding of the linked phenomena of elder abuse and neglect. This article aims to provide a consideration of factors from the field of mental health and in particular the mental health of older people which might increase both knowledge and understanding of elder abuse and abusive situations and assist in the search for resolution to such problems.