Abuse and Neglect of Older Canadians: Strategies for Change

Christine Hughes is a policy analyst at the Ontario Native Affairs
Secretariat.

This volume, which draws together the writings of more than 25
contributors, originated in 1992 as part of a project undertaken by the
Canadian Association on Gerontology. The book aims to assess current
knowledge and to propose solutions to the problem of elder abuse. Each
of the book’s four sections is prefaced by an introduction that
provides an overview of the chapters that follow.

The “Practice” section offers readers some concrete examples of
direct front-line intervention, primarily within the health and social
service systems. The “Policy” section presents several different
views on the breadth and context of policy issues relating to the abuse
and neglect of older people. The “Education” section illustrates the
importance of teaching/sensitizing professionals, caregivers, older
adults, children, and the general public as a means of preventing elder
abuse. The “Research” section considers definitions and measurement
of abuse and neglect, as well as epidemiological and outcome evaluation
research on the abuse and neglect of seniors.

While the study of elder abuse and neglect in Canada is still emerging,
this book provides readers with a well-organized entry into the field.
The authors highlight gaps and problems in the existing research and
indicate areas for further study. The book contains a very comprehensive
list of references, including relevant legislation, as well as a useful
list of supportive community agencies and programs. The author’s
recommendations, summarized in an appendix, challenge readers to take
steps to stop the abuse and neglect of older Canadians. Their book is
suitable for policymakers, educators, researchers, students, and
seniors, and for practitioners in the fields of gerontology, health,
social services, and law.