Lately, there has been a greater awareness of elder abuse in society. Melissa Turcotte, executive director for Timmins and District Victim Services, noted a recent increase in reports of abuse at retirement homes. She views this as a sign that people are more likely to bring their concerns to the police. “I think people are finally realizing it and calling a spade a spade so that we can’t treat anyone like this,” Turcotte said. “In particular, I feel that there’s so many more awareness campaigns.” Awareness campaigns by organizations like the International Federation on Ageing and the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada are helping empower seniors and their families to come forward. 

This increased awareness of elder abuse has also led to a greater focus on how to spot signs of abuse. Medical imaging of injuries in elderly patients now plays a key role in identifying and preventing abuse. Imaging has long played a part in child abuse cases, but not in instances of elder abuse. This issue resulted from both a lack of public awareness and the challenges of identifying elder abuse.

“Comorbidities, osteoporosis, medication and being more prone to falling are factors that come with aging,” stated Dr. Badawy, MD, a radiologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. “This can make it more difficult for radiologists to distinguish between a standard injury and abuse.” An analysis of abused elders from six countries found that injuries to the upper extremities were the most common (44%), followed by fractures of the maxillofacial bones (23%) and lower extremities (11%).

Imaging, however, is only the beginning. Following imaging and suspicion of abuse, radiologists need to take their concerns to the referring physician. If abuse is confirmed, further treatment tends to follow. If there is a concern for continued abuse, then social workers, hospital administrators and lawyers can work together toward separating victims from their abusers.

Although elder abuse continues to be a problem, increased public awareness and greater efforts by the medical community will ensure that it’s no longer swept under the rug. 

Have a great day,

Ian & James

Sources: 

Nick Klenske, “Radiologists at the Frontline of Preventing Elder Abuse”, Radiological Society of North America (11 August 2022), online. 

Casey Stranges, “Elder abuse not on the rise, advocates say after assault in Elliot Lake, Ont.”, CBC News (11 August 2022), online.