Mistreatment of Older Adults

Course overview

As the U.S. population ages, increased numbers of older adults have been subjected to mistreatment. Professionals who work with older adults are well-positioned to detect potential abuse and connect them with resources. Unfortunately, many cases go undetected and unreported. Professionals often do not receive the training necessary to assess and respond to elder abuse. This course will explain the different types of elder abuse and neglect. You will be able to identify specific warning signs, risk factors, and assessment methods. Information will be discussed in terms of older adults who reside in the community and in institutional settings. You will also learn the legal requirements for reporting suspected abuse and basic information about steps you can take to prevent revictimization. The goal of this course is to provide knowledge to health education, medical assistant, nursing, occupational therapy, and social work professions in multiple settings to recognize, report, and prevent mistreatment in older adults.