Risk factors for elder abuse.

The results of the first national incidence study of noninstitutionalized elder abuse and neglect in the United States are reviewed, as well as underlying causes of abusive relationships involving the elderly. It is estimated that approximately 1% to 2% of elders living in their own homes became abused in the United States during 1996, physically, emotionally, sexually, and/or financially. The abusers were predominantly adult children, spouses, and other relatives. More than 5 times as many new incidents of abuse and neglect were unreported than those reported to authorities responsible for addressing elder abuse. An individual who abuses an elder is often financially dependent on the elder, violent in other contexts, abuses alcohol and/or drugs, and has psychological problems. Although current rules and practices constrain the underwriting professional's use of this information in risk selection, public demand for financial institutions' reporting of elder abuse may provide an opportunity for open discussion about responsible handling of such cases.