Future directions for social policy and elder abuse: through the looking glass of generational characteristics.
The future directions for social policy and elder abuse are forecast using the characteristics of three contiguous generations: Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Nexters. The results suggest greater potential victimization for the Boomers than previous generations, particularly neglect and exploitation. Gen Xers may experience more self-neglect. Social policy will continue to emphasize the criminalization of elder abuse, reflecting Boomer self-righteousness and severity. Elder abuse victimization will have a medical hue, given the Boomer obsession with health and wellness. Although Gen Xers are less cynical than Boomers, they will be more concerned about their immediate lives and pass the elder abuse policy torch to the Nexters, who will elevate it in deference to the Boomers and in quest for a higher moral order.
Anetzberger
Georgia J
GJ
Health Care Administration Program, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, USA. g.anetzberger@csuohio.edu
Teaster
Pamela B
PB
D000368:Aged; D004552:Elder Abuse / Q000639:trends*; D005544:Forecasting; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000639:trends; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D011640:Public Policy / Q000639:trends*