Elder abuse and neglect


Definition

Elder abuse and neglect are defined as "a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person."

WHO/INPEA. 2002. Missing Voices: Views of Older Persons on Elder Abuse. Geneva: World Health Organization (p.3)

For a full definition, see Family Violence Intervention Guidelines: Elder Abuse and Neglect, Ministry of Health, 2007 (p.72)

Note: This page was created as pre-reading for the Auckland Regional Networking Meeting, Family and Sexual Violence held at Western Springs in September 2012.