The nurse suspects that there is physical abuse present after visiting an older client in her home. She has been receiving care from her family for several months

Question

In recognition of the pattern of family violence, which of the following does the nurse know is true? a. Mental illness is a major cause of abuse.
b. Abuse is primarily seen in lower-income families.
c. Spouses are the most frequent abusers.
d. Family members and family caregivers are the most frequent abusers of older adults.

Answer 1

D
Family members and family caregivers are the most frequent abusers of older adults. Caregiving can be stressful, causing a decline in the health of the caregiver and care receiver and leading to the development of abusive relationships.
Mental illness may increase the incidence of abuse within the family, but is not the major cause of abuse.
Abuse occurs across all social classes.
Spouses are classified as family members, but the most frequent abusers of older adults are fam-ily members and family caregivers, and this includes all caregivers.