Risk Factors
There are several risk factors, which increase the likelihood that an elderly person will become a victim of elder abuse. Such risk factors for elder abuse include an elderly person who:
- Has memory problems (such as dementia)
- Has physical disabilities
- Has depression, loneliness, or lack of social support
- Abuses alcohol or other substances
- Is verbally or physically combative with the caregiver
- Has a shared living situation
There are also several risk factors, which increase the likelihood that a caregiver will participate in elder abuse. Such risk factors for elder abuse include a caregiver who:
- Feels overwhelmed or resentful
- Has a history of substance abuse or a history of abusing others
- Is dependent on the older person for housing, finances, or other needs
- Has mental health problems
- Is unemployed
- Has a criminal history
- Has a shared living situation
Read more about this topic: Elder Abuse
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