A First (and Disturbing) Look at the Relationship Between the Opioid Epidemic and Elder Abuse: Insights of Human Service Professionals. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roberto, Karen A.; Teaster, Pamela B.; Lindberg, Brian W.; Blancato, Robert
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied gerontology. Volume 40:Number 10(2021)
• Page Start: 1231
• Page End: 1235
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: elderly -- opioids -- facilities -- families -- rural -- substance abuse; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 362.6
• DOI: 10.1177/0733464820947279
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0733-4648

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between the opioid epidemic and elder abuse. Twenty professionals from four states with working knowledge of elder abuse cases participated in focus groups. Thematic analysis revealed four themes characterizing the relationship between opioid misuse and elder abuse: (a) Opioid-Related Elder Abuse i s an Escalating Problem; (b) Vulnerable Older Adults a re Prisoners in Their Own Home; (c) Health Care Professionals Perpetrate Opioid-Related Elder Abuse ; and (d) Older Adults Abuse and Deal Opiates . In addition, all participants noted the lack of reliable, retrievable data to address cases of elder abuse when opioids are involved. Findings lay the groundwork for further research to understand the breadth and depth of the opioid-elder abuse relationship that can ultimately be used to develop prevention and intervention strategies and policies to address this hidden but widespread concern.