Clinical meaning
Elder abuse encompasses intentional acts or failures to act by a caregiver or trusted individual that cause harm or create a serious risk of harm to an older adult, typically defined as a person aged 65 years or older. Understanding the biological vulnerability of older adults is essential for recognizing why this population is particularly susceptible to harm from abuse and neglect. Age-related physiological changes include thinning of the epidermis and dermis (reducing the skin's protective function and making bruising easier with less force), decreased subcutaneous fat (reducing cushioning against trauma), osteoporosis (reducing bone density and increasing fracture risk from minimal force), decreased hepatic and renal function (increasing medication sensitivity and toxicity risk), and declining cognitive function (impairing the ability to recognize exploitation or advocate for oneself). The stress-vulnerability model of elder abuse identifies the intersection of caregiver stress (financial pressure, mental health issues, substance abuse, caregiver burnout) with elder vulnerability (cognitive impairment, physical dependence, social isolation, financial resources) as the primary risk framework. Five recognized categories of elder abuse exist. Physical abuse involves the intentional use of physical force...