Medical implications of elder abuse and neglect

Health care professional's role in recognition of elder abuse and neglect has been a relatively recent phenomenon. Millions of elderly suffer as the result of abuse and neglect each year in the form of worsened quality of life, higher health system utilization, and high risk for mortality. Health care professionals are uniquely situated in detecting, reporting, and managing suspected cases of elder abuse and neglect, yet many barriers exist both on the individual level as well as a broader need for system change. Through education, training and reinforcement, health care providers could be more involved in providing effective management protocols and guidelines to advocate for our elders in the current epidemic of abuse and neglect.