Citation

Stieber Roger K, Ursel J. J. Elder Abuse Negl. 2009; 21(2): 115-140.

Affiliation

Department of Family Social Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. rogerk@cc.umanitoba.ca

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08946560902779944

PMID

19347714

Abstract

This article discusses the results of a survey administered as part of a study titled, "Legislation and Service Provision Regarding Abuse and/or Neglect of Older Adults in Manitoba." Public views of mandatory reporting and knowledge of legislation were investigated in the case where an older adult is living at risk of abuse and/or neglect in Manitoba, Canada. The survey data demonstrate that older respondents stated that mandatory reporting was not always preferable, except when an older adult was clearly diagnosed as incompetent and, even with no evidence, thought to be at risk. With less awareness of the topic in general, and with less contact with older adults, younger adults had much stronger views in support of mandatory reporting in all cases. Little knowledge and awareness of legislation existed in all age groups, although older adults knew more about such abuse and/or neglect than younger adults. Given the projected increase of older adults in Canada in the next 20 years, it is critical that the prevention of abuse and/or neglect and protection of older adults be addressed.

Language: en