Elder abuse by family caregivers: Processes and intervention strategies

This study of 104 family caregivers who provided care to 119 elderly kin discusses the stress and conflict that can result when the older person, the caregivers, and the family are unprepared to fulfill the caregiving tasks. Sources of stress that contribute to physical and psychological abuse of the elderly are examined. Suggestions such as setting guidelines, establishing support groups, providing respite and household care, and increasing awareness about the aging process and elder abuse are offered as mechanisms for preventing abusive interactions and increasing the quality of life for the elderly and their families.Revision of a paper presented at the 1986 Groves Conference on Marriage and the Family, London, England.