Summary:
Elder abuse is defined as the mistreatment, neglect or exploitation of an elderly person. The abuse can be physical, sexual, psychological or financial. Today all 50 states have legislation designed to protect adults age 60 and older as well as services to assist them. OTs are included as mandated reporters of suspected neglect or abuse in most states. As providers of personal care in clients’ homes and long-term care settings, OTs are well-positioned to screen for abuse and to help prevent its occurrence.
Objectives:
The purpose of this program is to inform occupational therapists about elder abuse and measures to take to help prevent it. After studying the information presented here, you will be able to —
- Describe steps occupational therapists can take to prevent elder abuse.
- Discuss domestic elder abuse and name the most frequent victims and perpetrators.
- Identify signs of elder self-neglect and steps to take in working with these patients.
Accreditation Information
Gannett Healthcare Group is an approved provider of continuing education for occupational therapists by the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Continuing education approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association is accepted for relicensure by the state boards for occupational therapists in: Alaska, Nevada, Arkansas, New Hampshire, Delaware, North Carolina, District of Columbia, Ohio, Illinois, Oregon, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Maryland, South Carolina, Minnesota, Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri, Vermont, Montana & Virginia.