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

Who Can Screen For Elder Abuse?

Screening can be initiated or conducted by any of the following:

Health and medical professionals often are the first to recognize abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Many older adults see their doctors as trusted individuals who are willing and able to help. The American Medical Association has recognized health providers' critical role and has recommended routine screening for abuse as part of daily practice.ref Health professionals are well positioned to:

• Conduct screening for abuse and neglect
• Identify signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect
• Intervene and treat problems that result from abuse and neglect

Social service workers often are called to assess the situation and screen for abuse and neglect. State Adult Protective Services agencies are responsible for screening, intervening, and treating suspected elder abuse cases in the home. For more about reporting suspected elder abuse, see Module 5.

Family members, relatives, and in-home caregivers also are in a good position to identify abuse or neglect. As people age, they can become more isolated from professional or social situations, interacting less with others outside the family. A family member or relative may visit and observe the abuse by another family member or in-home caregiver, or the caregiver may observe the abuse by a family member. Although not professionally trained to conduct an assessment, individuals in these situations often take responsibility for getting help. In dangerous situations, they may have to call the police to intervene.

Other people who may be able to assess abuse include neighbors, home care nurses, family dentists, doctors, or emergency room staff. Given the various ways abuse is suspected, observed, and/or recognized, screening can occur by any of these individuals.