The following is the updated/revised version of the broad conceptual definition of mistreatment that was developed by participants in the Defining and Measuring Elder Abuse (DMEA) Definition Consensus workshop:
“Mistreatment of older adults refers to actions/behaviours or lack of actions/behaviours that cause harm or risk of harm within a trust relationship.”
Physical Abuse
“Actions or behaviours that result in bodily injury, pain, impairment or physical distress.”
Emotional/Psychological Abuse
“Severe or persistent verbal/non-verbal behavior that results in emotional or physical harm.”
Financial/Material Abuse
“An action or lack of action with respect to material possessions, funds, assets, property, or legal documents, that is unauthorized, or coerced, or a misuse of legal authority.”
Neglect
“Repeated deprivation of assistance needed by an older person for activities of daily living.”
You should not rely on information tools for medical, financial or legal advice. It provides general information only. NICE is not responsible for any use of the information other than for general educational/informational purposes and no claim can be made against NICE or any of its personnel for any such use.
