Screening for Elder Abuse in Hospitalized Older Adults With Dementia

• NCJ Number: 241041
• Journal: Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 24 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2012 Pages: 195-215
• Author(s): Leslie D. Pisani, M.S.W., R.S.W.; Christine A. Walsh, Ph.D., R.S.W.
• Date Published: July 2012
• Length: 21 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

When older adults with dementia are hospitalized for psychiatric treatment, which elder abuse screen to use is questionable.

Abstract

When older adults with dementia are hospitalized for psychiatric treatment, which elder abuse screen to use is questionable. This article reviews screens to identify desirable characteristics. For clinician completion, the Elder Assessment Instrument and the Brief Abuse Screens for the Elderly are recommended. For the older adult, the brief Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test is suitable. The Modified Conflict Tactics Scale, which can be used by both the older adult and the nonprofessional caregiver, has many of the recommended characteristics. Research is necessary in the application of these screens within hospitals to detect elder abuse within this specialized population. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.