Page 129 - Human Rights

Faculty of Nursing
Adult care Nursing Department

Elder abuse has been defined as any act or omission, intentional or unintentional, that causes

harm or distress to an older person or places their health and welfare at risk.

Abuse in institutional settings—such as nursing homes, residential care facilities, hospitals, and

long-term care institutions—raises particular concern because elderly residents are often
completely dependent on staff for their survival and well-being.

The National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse has classified elder abuse into domestic

abuse, institutional abuse, and self-neglect.

Institutional abuse may involve physical violence, psychological abuse, financial exploitation,

inappropriate use of medication or restraints, and systematic neglect.

Poor working conditions, inadequate staffing, lack of training, and weak management oversight is

frequently identified as contributing factors.

Violence and ill-treatment in institutions can have physical, psychological, social, and legal
consequences.

Physically, elderly residents may suffer injuries, infections, malnutrition, or worsening of chronic

diseases.

Psychologically, abuse can lead to depression, anxiety, confusion, and accelerated cognitive

decline. Socially, it can result in isolation and loss of trust in caregivers.

Legally, such abuse constitutes a violation of human rights and may involve criminal responsibility.

Nursing staff may encounter violence in multiple roles: as caregivers, witnesses, or, in some cases,
perpetrators.

Some elderly residents—particularly those with dementia or severe mental illness—may display

aggressive behavior, which can place staff at risk.

118 Academic Year 2025/2026