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Patterson T, Hobbs L, Brown E, Barak Y. Sexual Assault in Older-Age Adults: Criminal Justice Response in New Zealand. J Aging Soc Policy 2023:1-16. [PMID: 38007620 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2023.2284575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
There is growing recognition that older persons, both male and female, may experience sexual assault. One clearly identified gap in the body of scientific literature is examination of the criminal justice response for older adults who have been sexually assaulted. This retrospective age-group comparative data analysis examines publicly available population and police statistics for 2018 to describe rates (per 100,000) of reported sexual assault across adult age categories (young adult, n = 748; adult, n = 1,478; middle age, n = 290; older adult, n = 58) and compare (using Chi-square bivariate analysis) the criminal justice response to sexual assault for these adult age categories in New Zealand (NZ). Sexual assault was perpetrated against victims across all age and sex groups examined. The rate of reported sexual assault against older adults was significantly lower after the age of 65 years (7.90 per 100,000) compared to younger adults aged 20-64 years (87.57 per 100,000). Across age categories no difference was found in the proportion of cases proceeded to court action. This study raises awareness of the topic of sexual assault perpetrated against older persons and shows that a substantial number of older adults experience sexual assault in cases that do not result in court action. It points to the need for policy-makers to consider the reporting of sexual assaults against older persons to justice services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tess Patterson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Linda Hobbs
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elliott Brown
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yoram Barak
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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2
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Liu PJ, Hass Z, Stratton SK, Conrad KM, Conrad KJ. OUP accepted manuscript. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:1359-1368. [PMID: 35323945 PMCID: PMC9579456 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Adult Protective Services (APS) are the frontline agencies investigating elder mistreatment and providing/coordinating postinvestigation services. Yet, their effectiveness in reducing different types of mistreatment in relation to services is unknown. This study aimed to address the knowledge gap by identifying services provided by mistreatment type, and examining the associations of services with mistreatment reduction. Research Design and Methods A pretest–post-test design was implemented using the Identification, Services, and Outcomes (ISO) Matrix to assess mistreatment levels during case investigation and at case closure after services were provided. San Francisco and Napa APS participated in a 6-month data collection. Results The 4 most prevalent types of mistreatment were examined: emotional, physical, financial abuse, and neglect by others. On average, level of mistreatment decreased across mistreatment types after APS intervention. Care/case management, mental health, and other services were most common, while specific services differed depending on type of mistreatment. Care/case management services were associated with physical and emotional abuse reduction, legal services further correlated with emotional abuse reduction; financial planning services were associated with financial abuse reduction; care/case management and other services were associated with neglect reduction. Discussion and Implications This is the first study to address APS services by mistreatment type and the outcomes of services. Adoption of the ISO Matrix by APS programs opens the possibility of research and practice collaboration in APS outcomes research using a standardized approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-Ju Liu
- Address correspondence to: Pi-Ju Liu, PhD, School of Nursing, Purdue University, 502 North University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. E-mail:
| | - Zachary Hass
- Schools of Nursing and Industrial Engineering and Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana,USA
| | - Sara K Stratton
- San Francisco Adult Protective Services, Department of Aging and Adult Services, City and County of San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Karen M Conrad
- Division of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Kendon J Conrad
- Division of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Band-Winterstein T, Goldblatt H, Lev S. Breaking the Taboo: Sexual Assault in Late Life as a Multifaceted Phenomenon-Toward an Integrative Theoretical Framework. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2021; 22:112-124. [PMID: 30813855 DOI: 10.1177/1524838019832979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Sexual assault (SA) in late life has been receiving growing attention over the past two decades. It is directed primarily against older women and has been the least frequently reported form of abuse. Despite the growing awareness and body of knowledge on this phenomenon, the theoretical framework is still limited. Therefore, the aim of the present article is to suggest a theoretical conceptualization of the multifaceted phenomenon of sexual assault against women in late life (SAWLL). This conceptualization has been developed through several stages: (a) identification of three grounded fields of inquiry that are relevant to SAWLL: SA, elder mistreatment, and intimate partner violence; (b) classification of SAWLL along four paths: (1) ongoing SA in the context of lifelong IPV; (2) SA beginning in old age in the family within the community, involving spouses, family members, caregivers, dating mates, and so on; (3) ongoing SA, continuing in institutions, perpetrated by family members; and (4) SA in institutions, beginning in old age, relating to staff, residents, and family members; (c) We suggest three additional theoretical perspectives: trauma, a life-course perspective, and social constructionism, which provide further in-depth knowledge for understanding SAWLL. The combination of the three abovementioned stages composes an integrative theoretical framework, addressing SAWLL as a multifaceted phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tova Band-Winterstein
- Department of Gerontology, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Hadass Goldblatt
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sagit Lev
- School of Social Work, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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‘If You Do Not Believe That It Happens You Won’t See It Either!’-Sexual Abuse in Later Life. INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES ON AGING 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-25093-5_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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5
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Abner EL, Teaster PB, Mendiondo MS, Ramsey-Klawsnik H, Marcum JL, Crawford TN, Wangmo T. Victim, Allegation, and Investigation Characteristics Associated With Substantiated Reports of Sexual Abuse of Adults in Residential Care Settings. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2019; 34:3995-4019. [PMID: 27754922 DOI: 10.1177/0886260516672051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics of investigations of sexual abuse concerning vulnerable adults residing in facility settings that were associated with case substantiation. Data on 410 reports of sexual abuse were collected prospectively from Adult Protective Services (APS) and state licensure agency staff in New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin over a six-month period. Specifically, we examined differences between reports that were substantiated and those that were not by comparing characteristics of alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and aspects of investigation using logistic regression. We found that a relatively low proportion of cases (18%) were substantiated overall. Compared to cases that were not substantiated, cases that were substantiated were more likely to feature nursing home residents, older victims, female victims, and allegations of physical contact between the alleged perpetrator and victim. Despite the high proportion of alleged perpetrators who were facility staff (51%) compared to resident perpetrators (25%), cases with resident-to-resident allegations of abuse were much more likely to be substantiated, accounting for 63% of substantiated cases. In light of these findings, we believe it is important that investigators are trained to handle sexual abuse cases appropriately and that they are able to investigate the case thoroughly, promptly, and with as much information as possible. It is also critical that investigators make substantiation decisions using the appropriate standard for confirmation (e.g., preponderance of the evidence, beyond a reasonable doubt, clear and convincing evidence) as state law dictates.
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Bows H. Sexual Violence Against Older People: A Review of the Empirical Literature. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2018; 19:567-583. [PMID: 29333969 DOI: 10.1177/1524838016683455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Aging and sexual violence are both established areas of research, but little attention has been paid to research into sexual violence against older people. This article presents a critical review of the literature reporting empirical research in three overlapping fields of inquiry: elder abuse, domestic violence, and sexual violence, identifying points of theoretical and methodological similarity and difference across academic disciplines. Using a range of search terms combining age, sexual violence, and elder abuse, the following databases were searched: EBSCOHOST, Ingenta-Ingenta connect, and JSTOR. In total, the databases searches returned 31 relevant articles and an additional 9 relevant articles were found through manual searches of bibliographies and Google searches, which were grouped into three categories: elder abuse, domestic violence in later life, and sexual violence against older people. Four themes common across these fields emerged: prevalence, characteristics of victims and risk factors, impacts and coping strategies, and perpetrator and assault characteristics. The findings in each area are discussed in detail, exposing gaps in knowledge and understandings of sexual violence against older women. The article ends by defining a future research agenda for this underexplored phenomenon that is of increasing importance in a context of global aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Bows
- 1 Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse, School of Applied Social Sciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
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7
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Smith D, Cunningham N, Willoughby M, Young C, Odell M, Ibrahim J, Bugeja L. The epidemiology of sexual assault of older female nursing home residents, in Victoria Australia, between 2000 and 2015. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2018; 36:89-95. [PMID: 30469073 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sexual assault is the least acknowledged, detected, and reported type of assault against nursing home residents. Nursing home staff are responsible for reporting suspected allegations to the police, who will contact a clinical forensic examiner to conduct a forensic medical examination. This study examined the epidemiology of sexual assaults of older women (aged 65 years and older) residing in nursing homes in Victoria, Australia, between 2000 and 2015, whose alleged incidents were referred to a clinical forensic examiner for a forensic medical examination. A retrospective analysis of alleged sexual assaults reported to the Clinical Forensic Medicine Unit at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2015 was conducted. The study identified 28 forensic medical examinations performed for alleged sexual assault. The alleged victims frequently had cognitive impairments; injuries were infrequent; and alleged victims were cooperative. The forensic medical examiner responded within 72 h of reporting; and frequently noted limitations to physical examinations of the alleged victim. The actual number of sexual assaults during this period may be masked by under-reporting and, lack of identification by nursing home staff. There are many unresolved issues including: incidence, levels of reporting, nature of investigations, responses required to assist the victim, and the interventions needed to prevent sexual assault. Better data is vital. This data should be standardized, validated, reliable, and gathered prospectively across Australia and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Smith
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia.
| | - Nicola Cunningham
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Clinical Forensic Medicine, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Melissa Willoughby
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Carmel Young
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Morris Odell
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Clinical Forensic Medicine, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Joseph Ibrahim
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Lyndal Bugeja
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
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8
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Fileborn B. Sexual Assault and Justice for Older Women: A Critical Review of the Literature. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2017; 18:496-507. [PMID: 27034325 DOI: 10.1177/1524838016641666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a critical review of current literature on the sexual assault of older women-including an exploration of the specific features and emotional and physical impacts of older women's experiences-and highlights current gaps and future directions for research, practice, and theory. A review of the literature indicates that older women constitute only a small proportion of victim/survivors. However, there is evidence to suggest that existing research underestimates the extent of this issue. Older women face particular barriers to disclosure and accessing the justice system, resulting in their experiences remaining hidden. Many of these barriers also contribute toward older women's experiences being ignored, dismissed, or downplayed by potential bystanders. These barriers are explored in depth in this article and include cultural context, ageism, cognitive and health impairments, and living in a residential care setting. Responding to, and preventing, the sexual assault of older women requires a tailored approach-and we currently lack sufficient insight to develop appropriate responses. In closing, this article considers how we might work toward achieving "justice" for older women victim/survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Fileborn
- 1 Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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9
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Smith D, Bugeja L, Cunningham N, Ibrahim JE. A Systematic Review of Sexual Assaults in Nursing Homes. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2017; 58:e369-e383. [DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnx022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Smith
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lyndal Bugeja
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicola Cunningham
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Clinical Forensic Medicine, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph E Ibrahim
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Ernst JS, Ramsey-Klawsnik H, Schillerstrom JE, Dayton C, Mixson P, Counihan M. Informing evidence-based practice: a review of research analyzing adult protective services data. J Elder Abuse Negl 2015; 26:458-94. [PMID: 24965804 DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2013.832605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The mission of Adult Protective Services (APS) is to protect older and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The complexity of APS cases and the potential for life-changing interventions point to the need for research that examines and evaluates APS practices. A literature review identified 50 studies published during a 16-year period that used APS agencies, clients, data, or resources to test hypotheses regarding elder abuse. The analysis revealed promising efforts toward knowledge development about elder mistreatment and self-neglect. This article provides an overview of salient findings, notes the scarcity of studies that analyze the effectiveness of APS, and highlights the need for additional research. Lessons learned are described, and APS practitioners and researchers are urged to work collaboratively to develop key practice-related questions about APS processes and outcomes that can be tested with appropriate research methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Swanson Ernst
- a Department of Sociology and Social Work , Hood College , Frederick , Maryland , USA
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11
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Teaster PB, Ramsey-Klawsnik H, Abner EL, Kim S. The Sexual Victimization of Older Women Living in Nursing Homes. J Elder Abuse Negl 2015; 27:392-409. [PMID: 26331674 DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2015.1082453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study examined 64 cases of sexual victimization of women ages 65+ (mean = 81) living in facilities that were investigated by APS and regulatory agencies in five states over a six-month period. Typically, abuse involved molestation (53%) and unwelcome sexual interest in the body (20%). Abilities and needs of women in substantiated and unsubstantiated cases were comparable. Resident perpetrators were more likely to be substantiated than staff or any other perpetrator (p = 0.008). Our results underscore the need to evaluate differences associated with gender, age, and residence, and to train on reporting and intervention by disciplines serving victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela B Teaster
- a Graduate Center for Gerontology , Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , Blacksburg , Virginia , USA
| | - Holly Ramsey-Klawsnik
- b Sociologist & Licensed Mental Health Clinician , Private Practice , Canton , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Erin L Abner
- c Department of Epidemiology and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging , University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | - Sujee Kim
- a Graduate Center for Gerontology , Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University , Blacksburg , Virginia , USA
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12
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Speck PM, Hartig MT, Likes W, Bowdre T, Carney AY, Ekroos RA, Haugen R, Crum J, Faugno DK. Case Series of Sexual Assault in Older Persons. Clin Geriatr Med 2014; 30:779-806. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Nóbrega Pinto A, Rodrigues F, Dinis-Oliveira RJ, Magalhães T. Sexual Offenses Against Elderly People: Forensic Evaluation and Judicial Outcome. J Elder Abuse Negl 2014; 26:189-204. [DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2013.827951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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14
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McDonald L, Beaulieu M, Harbison J, Hirst S, Lowenstein A, Podnieks E, Wahl J. Institutional abuse of older adults: what we know, what we need to know. J Elder Abuse Negl 2012; 24:138-60. [PMID: 22471513 DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2011.646512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Although Canadian policies support "aging in place," there still will be a number of older adults who will require institutional care in the future. Most research on elder abuse, however, has focused on domestic abuse and has paid less attention to institutional abuse. The purpose of this article is to comprehensively review current research to identify gaps in knowledge and methodological issues in the study of institutional abuse. Overall, 49 studies in English and 20 studies in French were reviewed, and 11 key-informant interviews were conducted with methodological experts. Methodological challenges are addressed in light of the review and interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn McDonald
- Institute for the Life Course and Aging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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15
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Corbi G, Grattagliano I, Catanesi R, Ferrara N, Yorston G, Campobasso CP. Elderly residents at risk for being victims or offenders. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2012; 13:657-9. [PMID: 22722050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2012.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The phenomenon of elderly sexual offenders is poorly catalogued, and is especially complex. In institutions, elderly people are often unrecognized victims of sexual abuse but are also at great risk for doing abuse toward vulnerable victims like children. The lack of attention to an elder's basic needs can endanger or impair not only his or her health or safety but also that of other people living close together. In this article, for the first time we describe an episode of sexual abuse realized by an institutionalized patient toward a young visitor. This specific risk factor in a residential care home for elderly may lead to a variety of negative behavioral outcomes, including the perpetration of child sexual offending. As the elderly population will increase tremendously in the next years, it is necessary to better understand the motivations and psychological factors relating to elderly sex offenders, to prevent these offenses, and to define standards for surveillance of residents who are potential perpetrators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziamaria Corbi
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy.
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Weeks LE, LeBlanc K. An Ecological Synthesis of Research on Older Women's Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence. J Women Aging 2011; 23:283-304. [DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2011.611043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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17
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Brozowski K, Hall DR. Aging and risk: physical and sexual abuse of elders in Canada. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2010; 25:1183-99. [PMID: 19717787 DOI: 10.1177/0886260509340546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we review the literature on physical and sexual elder abuse within the context of risk theory and feminist sociology. Employing data from the 1999 General Social Survey, we also examine several variables potentially associated with the risk for physical or sexual abuse of elders. Women, Aboriginal Canadians, and elders who are divorced, living in urban areas with low income have a higher risk of physical or sexual abuse. This supports risk and anxiety as factors. Further testing of elder abuse using this theoretical framework is required.
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18
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Jones JS, Rossman L, Diegel R, Van Order P, Wynn BN. Sexual assault in postmenopausal women: epidemiology and patterns of genital injury. Am J Emerg Med 2009; 27:922-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2008.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2008] [Revised: 07/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Hodell EC, Golding JM, Yozwiak JA, Bradshaw GS, Kinstle TL, Marsil DF. The perception of elder sexual abuse in the courtroom. Violence Against Women 2009; 15:678-98. [PMID: 19299250 DOI: 10.1177/1077801209332294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study explored mock juror perceptions of elder sexual mistreatment (ESM). In Experiment 1, 118 participants read a fictional criminal trial summary of an ESM case in which a 76-year-old woman was allegedly abused by either her son or a neighbor. In Experiment 2 (n = 360), the ESM occurred in either a nursing home or the elder's home and the alleged perpetrator was either her son or a nursing home worker. Conviction rates were relatively low in both experiments (25% and 33%, respectively). Women were more pro-prosecution than men in case judgments. Overall, the study provides evidence that mock jurors may question the credibility of elders in ESM cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Hodell
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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20
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Adult sexual assault evaluations at Rhode Island emergency departments, 1995-2001. J Urban Health 2009; 86:43-53. [PMID: 18797994 PMCID: PMC2629515 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-008-9313-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Accepted: 07/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence and identify the temporal patterns of visits to Rhode Island emergency departments (EDs) by adults who were sexually assaulted. Visits to all Rhode Island EDs from January 1995-June 2001 by adults who were sexually assaulted were identified using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9) codes. Medical records of these visits were reviewed. Frequency distributions of the assault characteristics and patient demographics were generated. Incidence rates (IRs) of ED visits after sexual assault were estimated using 2000 US Census data. Analyses of the temporal patterns of the ED visits after sexual assault were conducted. Of the 823 ED visits, 796 (96.7%) were by females and 27 (3.3%) were by males. The median age for females was 25 years (range, 18-96 years) and was 28 years (range, 18-87 years) for males. Among the female patients, 76.6% sustained a vaginal/anal assault. Among the male patients, 59.3% sustained an anal assault. The average annual IR of ED visits after sexual assault was 30.3/100,000/year for females and 1.2/100,000/year for males, which is a 25-fold greater incidence of these visits for females than males. ED visits after adult sexual assault were more frequent during warmer months and around 5 P.M. There was a gradual 43% increase in the IRs of ED visits after sexual assault over the 6.5-year period. These findings should help direct EDs to maximize supportive services when they are needed most often.
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Ramsey-Klawsnik H, Teaster PB, Mendiondo MS, Marcum JL, Abner EL. Sexual Predators Who Target Elders: Findings from the First National Study of Sexual Abuse in Care Facilities. J Elder Abuse Negl 2008; 20:353-76. [DOI: 10.1080/08946560802359375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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22
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Burgess AW, Ramsey-Klawsnik H, Gregorian SB. Comparing Routes of Reporting in Elder Sexual Abuse Cases. J Elder Abuse Negl 2008; 20:336-52. [DOI: 10.1080/08946560802359250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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23
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Del Bove G, Stermac L, Bainbridge D. Comparisons of Sexual Assault Among Older and Younger Women. J Elder Abuse Negl 2008; 17:1-18. [PMID: 16931466 DOI: 10.1300/j084v17n03_01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the nature and extent of coercion, violence, and physical injury among older victims of sexual assaults (55 years and older) and compared these with the sexual assault victims of mid-age (31-54 years) and younger women (15-30 years). The results of this investigation reveal that older victims of sexual assault are more likely to be living alone at the time of the attack. In addition, older victims of sexual assault tended to report higher rates of vulnerabilities such as psychiatric and cognitive disabilities than did younger female victims. In contrast to younger victims, elder sexual assault victims are also more likely to be assaulted in their own home and one-quarter of older victims require ambulance involvement. Although the use of weapons was most likely in the sexual assaults of younger women, the use of physical violence and restraint was common and equally likely among all three groups. Similarly, vaginal penetration and the presence of physical trauma were just as likely in elder victims as in younger victims of sexual assault. These results reveal new information about the nature and extent of violence and coercion in elder female sexual assaults. The vulnerability of the older victims illustrated in this investigation raises a number of research questions about these women's prior history of victimization and future safety.
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From Behind the Shadows: A Profile of the Sexual Abuse of Older Men Residing in Nursing Homes. J Elder Abuse Negl 2008; 19:29-45, table of contents. [DOI: 10.1300/j084v19n01_03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Roberto KA, Teaster PB, Nikzad KA. Sexual abuse of vulnerable young and old men. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2007; 22:1009-23. [PMID: 17709807 DOI: 10.1177/0886260507302997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
During a 4-year period, aggregated data from Adult Protective Services case files in Virginia revealed 17 cases of sexually abused young, middle-age, and old men. The most common types of sexual abuse across age groups involved instances of sexualized kissing and fondling and unwelcome sexual interest in the individual men's bodies. The majority of alleged perpetrators were male; they typically were similar in age to the men and resided in the same residential facility. In none of the cases was the alleged perpetrator prosecuted. Only two of the men continued to be at risk of further sexual abuse by the alleged perpetrator. Implications of these data for future research and practice include a need for studies that focus on differences between male and female victims, especially concerning investigations and interventions, and for training on reporting and intervention for facilities and agencies and organizations working with victims and alleged perpetrators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Roberto
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, VA, USA.
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Abstract
In the past 10 years, reports of the abuse of older adults have risen by 30%. Supported by a growing body of work, research, practitioner and policy communities are poised to confront the problem. This article represents a review of the elder abuse and neglect literature published since 2001. Literature on elder abuse and neglect tends to be grouped in the following categories: definitional issues; screening and assessment instruments; the scope of elder abuse and neglect; sexual abuse; risk factors; outcomes; studies of Adult Protective Services; multidisciplinary teams; interventions by medical, criminal justice and policy communities; long-term care facilities; and theoretical perspectives. The authors suggest that studies of elder abuse and neglect move beyond descriptive studies and include more nuanced statistical methods and mixed methods approaches, further explore the promising research design of crosslinking a variety of databases, include a theoretical underpinning and work toward more theorizing, explore incidence and prevalence approaches to eventually capture elder abuse and neglect on a national level, and focus on outcomes of interventions (e.g., education, agency/entity).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela B Teaster
- University of Kentucky, Gerontology and Public Health, 306 Health Sciences Building, 900 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536–0200, USA
| | - Susan A Lawrence
- University of Kentucky, Gerontology and Public Health, 306 Health Sciences Building, 900 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536–0200, USA
| | - Kara A Cecil
- University of Kentucky, Gerontology and Public Health, 306 Health Sciences Building, 900 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536–0200, USA
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Melo VLD, Cunha JDOCD, Falbo Neto GH. Maus-tratos contra idosos no município de Camaragibe, Pernambuco. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE SAÚDE MATERNO INFANTIL 2006. [DOI: 10.1590/s1519-38292006000500006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJETIVOS: descrever a situação de maus-tratos contra idosos no município de Camaragibe, na região metropolitana do Recife, Pernambuco. MÉTODOS: estudo descritivo de corte transversal com uma amostra representativa da população idosa do município, e submetida a questionário previamente elaborado conforme os objetivos do estudo. RESULTADOS: dos 315 idosos, 95,4% estavam na sexta e sétima década de vida, 65,2% eram mulheres e recebiam até dois salários mínimos (91,4%), 87,5% tinham casas próprias, com deficiente esgotamento sanitário (84,1%) e baixo grau de escolaridade (97,1%). Sessenta e seis referiram sofrer maus-tratos. Desses, 65,2% eram do sexo feminino. O tipo de violência mais comum foi a psicológica (62,1%), seguida da física (31,8%), cometidas pelos próprios familiares dentro do próprio domicílio. As mulheres foram mais agredidas que os homens. 71,3% reagiram passivamente não sabendo a que órgão denunciar. No seu entendimento a comunidade era indiferente ao problema. CONCLUSÕES: os maus-tratos contra idosos apresentam-se como problema relevante para a saúde pública. Medidas educativas poderiam ser implementadas para esclarecê-los sobre direitos, facilitar a denúncia e a obtenção de apoio ou ajuda.
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