2Muğla Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Adli Tıp Anabilim Dalı MUĞLA Introduction: Increase in elderly population has raised the issue of elderly abuse as well as aging-related chronic diseases.One of these types of abuse is sexual assault although it is rarely encountered. In this study, it was aimed to determine the demographic characteristics and mental status of geriatric cases subjected to sexual assault, and also to highlight the difficulties experienced during both court and diagnosis.
Materials and Method: The criminal investigation files belonged to the cases of sexual crime reached to judicial institutions in Eskisehir and around it were investigated during a period of 6 years between May 31, 2005 and June 1, 2011.
Results: At that time, there were 8 cases of sexual assault who were within the geriatric age group, and it was determined that 2 cases would not have defended themselves spiritually due to Alzheimer's disease.
Conclusion: Mental status examination in sexual assault exposed during old age is of a great importance since it may be the only clue. In such cases, long duration of the court process and repeated examinations can increase the severity of trauma. Finally, rehabilitation of the elderly after attack becomes more difficult.
Keywords : Forensic Medicine; Aged; Rape