Elder Abuse

An Integrated Framework

By Fessha Taye, MA, CSA, CMC
San Francisco State University
College of Health and Human Services
Gerontology Program

May, 2003

Elder Mistreatment is our hidden problem and it is in the midst of our society, we all have the responsibility to understand, identify, and take the necessary measures to intervene and protect our elders.

As the number of individuals aged 65 and over have increased in the United States, so has the incidence of elder abuse. Unfortunately, the prevalence of this growing problem has generally remained hidden from the public's view. It is imperative that both professionals and laypersons become more aware of the scope and issues surrounding this sensitive topic.

This book was presented to meet the criteria for approving a culminating experience field study in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree: Master of Arts in Gerontology at San Francisco State University.

This field study is designed to explore many of the issues surrounding elder abuse. Its scope ranges from a literature review to a discussion of intervention and prevention strategies. To reduce the growing number of elder abuse cases, an awareness of the various types of abuse is discussed so that all members of our society may understand it.
In addition, systematic implementation of some recommendation are discussed to help establish a sound foundation for advancing knowledge on elder mistreatment.

Fessha Taye, MA, CSA, CMC