Stop Abuse and Neglect of Elders: Increasing Capacity to Respond

Project Description Narrative:

There has been a steady increase in reports of elder abuse across Wisconsin, with victims tending to be frail elderly, those with dementia, physical disability, or medical conditions. Physicians and healthcare providers are in an ideal position to identify and intervene in abuse situations, as they see elderly patients often, but a lack of training might be contributing to only 2% of reported cases coming from physicians.

The partners involved with this project will develop and implement evidence-based models for community service providers and physicians and their staff. The resulting program will increase capacity to recognize warning signs, respond to suspected situations of elder abuse or neglect, and make referrals for investigation and needed services.