Table of Contents

About This Course

1. Introduction to Elder Abuse
2. The Basics of Elder Abuse
3. Substance Use and Other Risk Factors
4. Screening and Assessment
5. Intervention and Treatment
6. Preventing Elder Abuse

Supplements
Case Studies
References
Resources

Out of the Shadows
Uncovering Substance Use and Elder Abuse

Summary

• No one symptom conclusively identifies elder abuse. Rather, there is often a pattern of physical, behavioral, and environmental indicators.
• The goal of screening for elder abuse is to identify those at risk to prevent, reduce, or stop it, and to provide victims with alternatives to protect themselves.
• Elder abuse often is associated with substance abuse or mental health issues. Screening should include questions on substance abuse and mental health, particularly depression.
• Identifying abuse is difficult due to numerous provider and victim barriers.