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

Behavioral Signs in the Suspected Victim of Abuse

The following behaviors in the older adult and the unusual manner in which the older adult and family member/caregiver interact can indicate abuse: ref^, ref

• Delays between onset of problem and seeking care
• Repeated cancellations of appointments
• "Doctor shopping" -- seeing many doctors or frequenting many facilities, making it difficult for health and social service professionals to observe a pattern of symptoms
• Frequent emergency room visits
• Vague complaints and unexplained injuries
• Different explanations for cause of injury provided by family member or caregiver
• Reluctance of family member or caregiver to leave older adult alone in exam room, or domination of interviews
• Fear of family member or caregiver
• Signs of emotional distress -- crying, acting withdrawn
• Repeated noncompliance with treatment

For more information on indicators of abuse, visit the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse Web site.