Abuse among African-American elderly

This paper presents an overview of recent literature and research on elder abuse among African-Americans. Data about maltreatment of elders in the majority and minority races are presented, but persistent, unanswered questions and other issues also are raised. Characteristics of victims and perpetrators of elder abuse, the history and cultural traditions of Black families, differences between Black informal support networks and others, the phenomenon of violence and African-Americans, and concerns about access and utilization of formal support(s) are discussed. Interim recommendations are proposed.