Understanding 'Elder Abuse and Neglect': A Critique of Assumptions Underpinning Responses to the Mistreatment and Neglect of Older People

Authors

Joan HarbisonFollow
Steve Coughlan, Dalhousie University Schulich School of LawFollow
Marie BeaulieuFollow
Jeff Karabanow, Dalhousie University
Madine VanderplaatFollow
Sheila Wildeman, Dalhousie University Schulich School of LawFollow
Ezra WexlerFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2012

Keywords

Social Welfare Law, Health Law and Policy, assumptions, elder abuse and neglect

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the ways in which the mistreatment and neglect of older people have come to be understood as a social problem, one which is underpinned by a variety of substantive and theoretical assumptions. It connects the process of conceptualizing elder abuse and neglect to political-economic and social evolution. The authors draw on a review of the literature, government sources, interest group websites, and their own research to provide a critical commentary illustrating how these understandings have become manifest in legislation, policies, and programs pertaining to "elder abuse and neglect" in Canada. Suggestions are provided for changes in direction for policies, programs, and research.

Comments

From the Selected Works of Steve Coughlan.

Recommended Citation

Joan Harbison et al, "Understanding 'Elder Abuse and Neglect': A Critique of Assumptions Underpinning Responses to the Mistreatment and Neglect of Older People" (2012) 24 JEAN 88.

Publication Abbreviation

JEAN