Elder mistreatment : a case report

Abstract

Elder mistreatment may become increasingly apparent as the elderly population continues to grow. Due to their knowledge and skills, physicians have a unique role in the multidisciplinary teams that care for such patients. This case report examines the suspected elder mistreatment in an aphasic, septic patient under the care of family members, one of which was also his medical decision maker. The healthcare team utilized medical and community resources in the care and intervention, which exemplified characteristics of best practice. Physicians and other providers have a responsibility to better identify and intervene in suspected cases of elder mistreatment and further education must be sought in order to adequately serve the elderly community.