Table 2 Operational definitions of abuse and neglect in residential settings [12]

Physical Abuse

Hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, misuse of medication or restraint.

Psychological abuse

Emotional abuse, threats of harm or abandonment, deprivation of contact, humiliation, blaming, controlling, intimidation, coercion, harassment, verbal abuse, isolation or withdrawal from services or supportive networks.

Sexual Abuse

Rape and sexual assault or sexual acts to which the older adult has not consented, or could not consent, or into which he or she was compelled to consent into which he or she was compelled to consent.

Financial Abuse

Theft or the misuse or misappropriation of property or possessions.

Neglect

Ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure to provide access to appropriate health care, social care or educational services, withholding of necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating.