Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes Jilian Acevedo Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service New York, New York SW and the Law Dr. Maschi July 12, 2014
Presentation Overview Critical Analysis of Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes Critical Assessment Prevention and Intervention Strategies
Critical Assessment
Problem Backgroud The elderly is a vulnerable population. Abuse occurs in different forms such as physical abuse, emotional/psychological, sexual, financial exploitation and intentional abuse
Case Vignette Carmen Rivera is a 62 year old female. Diabetes Son involved in care, however needs long term placement Son informed by resident that she was verbally abused (emotional abuse)
Theory/Perspective Situational theory This theory states that a caregiver who is filled with much burden cannot take the stresses of being a compassionate caregiver. I disagree with this theory. It is imperative that healthcare professionals are educated on boundaries and the importance of providing quality care.
United Nations Document Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”
United Nations Document Continued Article 5 of the UDHR states: “No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
Federal and State Policy The Elder Justice Act is a federal policy that came into effect in March of 2010 signed by Obama Helps to protect the resident’s from abuse.
Prevention and Intervention Strategies
Promising Practice Seven elements to resident abuse. Screening Training Prevention Identification Investigation
Promising Practice Cont. Protection Reporting
Engagement and Collaboration Families are encouraged to report their concerns, incidents and suggestions Families are informed if any abuse has occurred.
Evidence Although the elements are followed it has not really proven that it is effective, as there continues to be cases of abuse in nursing facilities.
Prevention Prevention is the third element of the seven. Prior to prevention there is screening and training of new employees. Thorough background checks and interviews are completed. In-services provided.
Policy Reform The role of policy reform and advocacy falls on the healthcare professionals. Our role as healthcare professionals is to report any suspicion of abuse
Recommendations State level, I recommend that New York State implement its own law on resident abuse. Many elderly fear the admission of a nursing home. Having a law in place can alleviate those concerns on a state level.
Final Reflection
What Did I Learn? More knowledgeable of the prevention of elderly abuse Now I have the skill to educate and encourage others
Reflection I wish to continue working with the elderly population. This population needs advocacy.
Resources
References Fulmer, T., Guadagno, L., Dyer, C., & Connolly, M. (2004). Progress in Elder Abuse Screening and Assessment Instruments. Journal Of The American Geriatrics Society, 52(2), doi: /j x Shinan-Altman, S., & Cohen, M. (2009). Nursing Aides' Attitudes to Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes: The Effect of Work Stressors and Burnout. Gerontologist, 49(5), Solomon, J., & Reingold, D. A. (2012). Creating and Elder Abuse Shelter: A Best-Practice model for Nonprofit Nursing Homes. Generations, 36(3),
References resources/news/what-is-the-elder-justice-act/ resources/news/what-is-the-elder-justice-act/ ws07_01_99.html ws07_01_99.html e-victims.shtml e-victims.shtml asp asp
Contact Information Jilian Acevedo, Graduate Social Work Student