Health Care Overview
Health care providers are in a unique position to identify and respond to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Many older adults, especially victims, have an ongoing relationship with one or more health care providers. Primary care physicians, emergency room staff, geriatricians, dentists, physical therapists, and other facility staff may all have an opportunity to see injuries suggesting physical or sexual abuse, signs of neglect or indicators of trauma.
SELECTED RESOURCES
Abuse in Later Life: Power and Control Dynamics and a Victim-Centered Approach. Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, January 2007. 12 (6) 322-331. Written by Bonnie Brandl and Deb Spangler.
Assessing for Abuse in Later Life
A guide aimed at health care professionals to assist in increasing identification of elder and domestic abuse and improving responses. Written by Bonnie Brandl, 2004.
Domestic Violence in Later Life: An Overview for Health Care Providers
This article discusses improving the ability of physicians to identify domestic violence. Written by Bonnie Brandl and Deb L. Horan.
LINKS
- University of California Irvine–Center of Excellence on Elder Abuse & Neglect: Research on Bruising and Pressure Ulcers
- International Association of Forensic Nurses: Nursing Response to Elder Mistreatment Curriculum
-
The American Congress of OB/GYNs: Elder Abuse: An Introduction for the Clinician and
Elder Abuse Provider Information/Education Materials