Which of the following is true about elder abuse perpetrators?

The assertion that elder abuse perpetrators are typically close family members is supported by substantial research and data on elder abuse. In many cases, the individuals committing abuse are relatives, such as adult children, spouses, or other family members. This close relationship often creates a scenario where the perpetrator feels a sense of entitlement or faces significant stress that may lead to abusive behavior.

Statistics indicate that a large proportion of elder abuse cases involve someone the victim knows well, which underscores why this group is at a higher risk for both abusiveness and vulnerability. Factors such as the responsibilities of caregiving, financial strain, or a history of conflict within family dynamics can contribute to elder abuse occurring within familial relationships.

This dynamic is contrasted with other potential sources of abuse, such as strangers, who are less frequently involved in these cases, as elder abuse is generally perpetrated by individuals who have direct access to and a pre-existing relationship with the victim. Hence, the identification of close family members as primary perpetrators is crucial for understanding prevention and intervention strategies in the context of elder abuse.