Screening for Elder Mistreatment in a Dental Clinic Population

• NCJ Number: 241592
• Journal: Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: October - December 2012 Pages: 326-339
• Author(s): Stefanie L. Russell, D.D.S., M.P.H., Ph.D.; Terry Fulmer, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N.; Geetika Singh, B.D.S.; Michael Valenti, R.N., M.S.N.; Roja Vermula, B.D.S.; Shiela M. Strauss, Ph.D.
• Date Published: October 2012
• Length: 14 pages
• Grant Number(s): R21 AG030664
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Aging
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the feasibility and utility of screening for elder mistreatment in a dental clinic population.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish the feasibility and utility of screening for elder mistreatment in a dental clinic population. The authors approached older adults in a busy dental clinic and enrolled 139 persons over the age of 65 who completed an Audio Computer Assisted Self Interview (ACASI), which included the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test (HS-EAST). Overall, 48.4 percent of the participants scored 3 or greater on the HS-EAST, and 28.3 percent scored 4 or greater. This study suggests that there is an opportunity to screen in busy dental clinics and to facilitate early detection for those patients who screen positive for elder mistreatment. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.