The ways in which gender is central to the occurrence, detection and prevention of elder abuse are analyzed in this volume. It argues that the very phrase 'elder abuse' masks the fact that gender is of significance in abusive situations involving older people and that the elision of this gendered reality of elder abuse is reflected in the research done in the field.
Drawing on their own research, the authors identify the gendered nature of elder abuse in the following areas: most of the very elderly victims are women; in both domestic and institutional settings, women abuse women; a significant number of older women are abused by their sons; a significant number of older men are abused by their female partners and daughters; and abuse by nonrelatives and noncarers of both sexes occurs.
Gender Issues in Elder Abuse considers why much of the research on elder abuse has failed to engage with these facts. The authors call for a reframing of the issue of elder abuse, specifically in professional guidelines for dealing with abuse, which they insist, should include gender awareness. They argue for elder abuse to be considered as a human rights issue rather than a private problem.
This book will be essential reading for academics and students in social work, social policy, women's studies and gerontology, as well as for professionals in the health and social services.
