Ageism and Elder Abuse -Hardcover

As an "ism," ageism reflects a prejudice in society against older adults. Ageist attitudes are perpetuated in many ways: for example, by the lack of positive images of the elderly in advertisements and on TV programs, as well as the widespread use of demeaning language about old age. The intentional mistreatment of, or harm to, elderly persons is classified as elder abuse. An abuser can be anyone that an older person comes in contact with, such as a caregiver, a neighbor, or others who has a negative attitude towards the elderly. But, mostly, elderly people are abused by family members and relatives. Abuse can be verbal, psychological, emotional, financial, and physical. Due to the fear of victimization, elderly people isolate themselves, and thereby become "a prisoner in their own home." This collection contains 26 papers that highlight the various issues relating to ageism and elder abuse in developed and developing countries. The book will be a valuable source material to psychologists, sociologists, social workers, and gerontologists in planning the strategies to combat ageism and elder abuse in society at large.