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

Preventing Elder Abuse by Family Caregivers

Most family caregivers provide quality care for older adults. It is common for family members with limited health care training or interest to find themselves responsible for a parent or other relative. Often, family caregivers accept the responsibility, creating fulfilling roles for themselves, their parents, and their children. Caregiving is generally a long-term commitment -- the average duration of caregiving is more than 4 years. ref However, family members need resources and guidance to learn how to be good caregivers.

Professionals and other concerned adults can help family caregivers enhance their coping skills and reduce stress factors that may lead to the risk of abuse. Helping caregivers enhance their coping skills to reduce stress is important for the well-being of the caregiver and the older adult. One study found that caregivers experiencing the highest levels of stress were 63 percent more likely than noncaregivers to die within the next 4 years. ref A review of the research on caregivers of family members with dementia published by the American Psychological Association discovered caregivers had higher stress hormones, lower resistance to some viruses, and poorer health than those not providing care to older adults. ref