SAQ 286 – Geriatrics – elder abuse recognition and decision-making capacity

Geriatrics – elder abuse recognition and decision-making capacity.

a. Essential elements

• A single or repeated act, or failure to act appropriately, causing harm or distress to an older person.
• It occurs within a relationship where trust is expected or implied, often where the older person is dependent.

b. Types

c. Vulnerability factors

• Poor physical health, physical limitations, or dependency on others.
• Cognitive impairment, diminished capacity, depression, or disruptive behaviour.
• Language or cultural barriers, isolation, or dysfunctional family setting.
• Poor financial literacy, financial dependence, low socioeconomic status, or legal loss of control.
• History of domestic violence or prior abusive relationship dynamics.

d. Carer risk characteristics

• Drug or alcohol dependence.
• Mental illness.
• Carer stress.
• Gambling addiction, financial hardship, or financial dependence on the victim.
• Emotional dependence on the victim, forensic history, or prior abuse.

e. Capacity elements

• Can maintain and communicate a choice and accept the information as reality.
• Can understand the relevant condition, options, and information.
• Can retain information relevant to the decision.
• Can appreciate the situation, consequences, and possible adverse outcomes.
• Can use and weigh information rationally, including explaining the major factors in the decision.