How is Elder Abuse and Neglect Similar to Other Forms of Family Violence?

The emerging profile of the abused or neglected elderly person is of a female, 70 years or older, who has physical, mental, and/or emotional impairments and is dependent on the abuser-caregiver for both companionship and help with daily living activities. There are many parallels between elder abuse and other forms of family violence. In fact, there is reason to believe that a certain proportion of elder abuse is actually spouse abuse grown old.

Elder abuse may be different in that the elder abuse victims, in contrast to the neglected, are relatively healthy and able to meet their daily needs. The common denominators in case of physical elder abuse are shared living arrangements, the abuser's poor emotional health, and a pathological relationship between victim and abuser.

Researching and combating elder abuse generally proceeds from either of two models: the caregiver model and the domestic violence model. The caregiver model views abusive or neglectful caregivers as individuals who are simply overwhelmed with the requirements of caring for their elderly family members. The domestic violence model, in contrast, views elder abuse and neglect as one form of family violence and focuses both on characteristics of abusers and on situations that put potential victims at increased risk.

It seems in a relationship, be it American or other ethnic backgrounds, power is the main focal point. Whoever has the power or is given the power in a relationship is the one to be feared or respected. Family hierarchy is important in many cultures and having the man as head of the household is of utmost importance and is not taken lightly. The relative power a husband has over his wife differs depending on what culture they are from, or what class system they were born into. Some husbands may be more submissive than their wives. It all depends on what culture, what race/ethnic background they are from and who should be head of the household.