The Complaints of Physical and Sexual Trauma: A Trauma-Informed Approach

Elder mistreatment comprises a multitude of behaviors including physical, psychological (or emotional), financial, and sexual abuse, and neglect by other persons or self-neglect. This chapter will discuss the biopsychosocial “red flags” for physical and sexual trauma arising during on-call or crisis situations in geriatric patients, offer strategies for work-up and management of trauma in this population, offer guidance in framing screening questions for abuse, and introduce the concept of trauma-informed care. For a broader discussion of the psychiatrist’s role in the diagnosis and management of suspected elder mistreatment, see Chap. 10.1007/978-3-319-30346-8_13. The Physical and Behavioral Indicators of Elder Mistreatment and Neglect.