Why People Abuse Elders

Theories of Abuse

Too many older Canadians have suffered abuse and neglect at the hands of family members and caregivers for too many years. What is new however is the growing awareness and concern about elder abuse, putting a new face to this type of family violence.

As with all forms of family violence and abuse, the motivation of actions and reasoning of responses surrounding elder abuse are profoundly complex. It is a combination of many factors, from psychological to economic, as well as the mental and physical conditions of the victim and the abuser. These factors do not usually operate in isolation. Instead, they tend to function as complex dimensions, interacting in ways uniquely dependent on the victim, perpetrator, and the situation.

Research into elder abuse is in its early stages. However, a few theories are emerging that address the causes of elder abuse. These include:

Learning Theory

Learning theory or trans-generational violence theory is based on the belief that violence is a learned behaviour pattern. A child observes violence as an acceptable reaction to stress and then internalizes this as an acceptable behaviour. In cases of elder abuse, violent behaviour becomes cyclical where the abused – the child – becomes the abuser of the parent.

In the case of spousal abuse, when the spouse who has been the abuser becomes ill or disabled, the previously abused partner may retaliate and become the abuser.

Physical/Mental Dependence (Impairment)

Impairment theory is based on the belief that elderly persons who have a severe mental or physical impairment are most vulnerable to becoming abused. In relationships where one person is dependent and another person is the helper or caregiver, there is always potential for misuse of power by the caregiver.

Pathologic Abusers

Pathologic theory focuses on the personality or character flaws of the abuser that cause abusiveness. Caregivers with drug and/or alcohol abuse/addiction, mental incapacitation, or mental illnesses tend to be far more likely to be abusive.

As caregivers, people facing these challenges are often lacking the decision making capacity to make appropriate judgments for the elderly people in their care. In spite of this, they are thrust into this role.

Stressed Caregiver

Caring for an older adult, especially one who suffers from a mental or physical impairment, is highly stressful. The stressed caregiver theory proposes that the mounting internal stress and/or external pressure that come with providing care for the elderly can erupt in violence. If a caregiver feels there is no relief or escape from this stress, abuse may occur.

Societal Attitudes

Societal attitude theory is based on the belief that certain societal attitudes toward older people make it easier for abuse to occur without remorse on the part of the caregiver. These attitudes can also reduce the likelihood of outside detection or intervention. Negative attitudes can lead to devaluation and lack of respect for older people, who are often stereotyped as frail, incompetent, and powerless. When regarded in this way, there can be a societal failure to recognize the importance of assuring dignity, support, and safety for every older person.

Source: Golden Years Hidden Fears, Virginia Boyack, (1997)