Elder Abuse and Neglect

Elder Abuse and Neglect remains an important topic in Geriatric Medicine not only because of our nation's large number of nursing homes (approx. 17,000), but also because of basic short term care that may fall into the defined categories of physical abuse, verbal/emotional abuse, and physical, medical and emotional neglect. This issue, guest edited by Martin Gorbien of Rush University Medical Center, serves to clearly define elder abuse and neglect. Topics ranging from cultural issues in elder abuse to the legal system's response and public policy initiatives are addressed by experts in this issue.