Elder abuse--"society's dilemma".

Elder abuse and neglect has been recognized as a growing problem in the United States, and this trend is likely to increase unless firm steps are taken to prevent it. All 50 states have reporting requirements for elder abuse and neglect. However, to date, there is no federal policy requiring reporting of elder abuse and neglect. In order to stem the tide of this awful scourge on society, we must continue to train caregivers and healthcare workers in the proper care and treatment of our elder citizens. Healthcare workers, especially emergency medicine physicians and nurses, must take the lead in this endeavor. There must be organized programs in healthcare facilities to facilitate the training of medical personnel. Scientific literature suggests that the abusers appear to be family members and caretakers of the elderly. Goals for prevention include enhancing quality of life, preventing family breakdown, and keeping the elderly persons in their homes as long as possible, if this is their wish. Intervention appears to be one of the best ways of prevention.