A case study of an abused older woman.

Because little is known about elder abuse, it is difficult to propose strategies for primary prevention or to select the most efficacious strategies to deal with abuse. Intervening is also complicated by personal and professional values that often have their origin in one's own family. Elder abuse is a complex challenge to health professionals, making assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation difficult. Using a case study approach, we illustrate these complexities, describe the dynamics, and apply a decision-making model to the management of a case of abuse. Theoretical research and background information are woven into the discussion of the case to explain further the dynamics.