Primary prevention
Ensuring that older adults have access to health care and routine monitoring for physical, cognitive, and functional problems will assist in preventing abuse. National Center on Elder Abuse Opens in new window If appropriate, educating older adults about being careful with resources and finances, helping them understand their rights, and making sure they know how to access helpful resources would be beneficial. Directory of Crime Victim Services Opens in new window Community education campaigns improve knowledge and awareness of older adult abuse and aging. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), celebrated since 2006, acts as an annual global platform to highlight this important issue. Caregiver education is also important. Attempts should be made to educate caregivers about the challenges of taking care of older adults with disabilities. They also need to recognize their own limitations and be able to ask for help from friends and family when the situation becomes overwhelming. Respite care is often available for caregivers. In addition, becoming part of support groups may help caregivers understand and deal with issues better. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance on how to prevent abuse before it occurs. Advice includes understanding how to recognize and report abuse, and helping state and local partners plan, implement, and evaluate prevention programs. CDC: abuse of older persons Opens in new window[1]
One scoping review found that programs with the greatest potential to prevent older adult abuse provided the following: helplines for potential victims; financial management for older adults at risk of financial exploitation; supportive interventions for caregivers; emergency shelter for victims; and support from a multidisciplinary team.[31] A 2016 Cochrane review found overall poor evidence of effective interventions to prevent abuse in older adults.[32]
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Benefits have been seen as a result of classroom education of middle school through to undergraduate students on aging.[33] Intergenerational programs have been found to improve awareness and reduce discrimination and age bias.[34]
Secondary prevention
The best preventive action that physicians can provide is the close monitoring of vulnerable older adults and early identification of signs of abuse.[63] Familiarity with the older adult through maintenance of a continuing care partnership helps to identify early any changes from their normal. When abuse is recognized, referrals need to be made early and adequate follow-up arranged. In addition, caregiver stress is of prime concern and needs to be addressed. Home healthcare, respite, and temporary placement could all be helpful in preventing abuse in the short and long term. Education and training of professional providers and other health care personnel is an essential intervention.
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