Signs of Physical Abuse and Neglect in the Elderly Patient
October 2017
in “
Clinics in Dermatology
”
TLDR Elderly abuse is often by family members, and doctors, especially dermatologists, can spot it by looking for unusual injuries and malnutrition.
The document from March 1, 2018, addresses the issue of physical abuse and neglect in the elderly, a concern that is expected to grow as the population ages. It outlines risk factors and notes that 90% of abuse perpetrators in community settings are family members. Dermatologists are identified as key professionals in recognizing signs of abuse, which include patterned injuries, wounds at various healing stages, blunt trauma, and irregular patches of alopecia. The Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI) is mentioned as a screening tool. The document stresses the need for awareness and careful differentiation between age-related skin changes and abuse signs to prevent misinterpretation. It also emphasizes the importance of a thorough history and physical examination, and suggests that certain injury characteristics should raise suspicion for elder abuse. Malnutrition is highlighted as a significant indicator of neglect, especially in institutionalized elderly. The document calls for interdisciplinary collaboration and systems for prevention and detection of elder abuse in care institutions.
