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...ion. The abuse of the elderly, or as some call it, “granny bashing”, has become a substantial national problem in the United States. Elder abuse is the infliction of physical, emotional, or psychological harm to an older adult. Elder abuse also can take the form of financial exploitation or intentional or unintentional neglect of an older adult by the caregiver. Why would anyone want to abuse the elderly? It’s just wrong! There is not one explanation for elder abuse and neglect. Elder abuse emerges from several different causes and factors. These factors include family situations, caregiver issues, and cultural issues. Sometimes, a woman who has been abused for many years may turn her rage on her husband when his health fails. Is there has been a history of violence in the family, an adult child may take the opportunity to “turn the tables” on the abusing parent by not giving them nourishment. Elder abuse will not simply go away. Swift and determined action must be taken to deal with this shameful situation. What most people don’t understand is that there are effective interventions and solutions to the abuse of the elderly. One solution to the abuse of the elderly is education. Media coverage of abuse in nursing homes and in homes has made the public knowledgeable about, and outraged against abusive treatment in those settings. Because most abuse occurs in the home by family members or caregivers, there needs to be a concerted effort to educate the public about the special needs and problems of the elderly and about the risk factors for abuse. People need to get involved with their community to help prevent elder abuse. It would be a great idea if your community or neighborhood would get together and make flyers educating people on the special needs and care of the elder, or knocking door-to-door and educating people on special care needs and abuse would be just as effective. Although this is a good step to preventing the abuse of the elderly, it may not help much. Trying to educate people on this issue wo...