Detection of elder abuse: Exploring the potential use of the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index© by law enforcement in the field. Issue 2 (15th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kurkurina, Elina; Lange, Brittany C. L.; Lama, Sonam D.; Burk-Leaver, Erin; Yaffe, Mark J.; Monin, Joan K.; Humphries, Debbie
• Is Part Of: Journal of elder abuse & neglect. Volume 30:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 103
• Page End: 126
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15
• Subjects: Elder abuse -- law enforcement -- aging -- detection -- screening; Elder Abuse -- Periodicals; Older people -- Abuse of -- United States -- Periodicals; Social work with older people -- United States -- Periodicals; 362.682
• DOI: 10.1080/08946566.2017.1382413
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-6566

Abstract

ABSTRACT: There are no known instruments to aid law enforcement officers in the assessment of elder abuse (EA), despite officers' contact with older adults. This study aimed to identify: 1) officers' perceptions and knowledge of EA, 2) barriers in detecting EA in the field, 3) characteristics officers value in a detection tool, and to explore 4) the potential for officers to use the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI)©. Data was collected from 69 Connecticut officers who confirmed that barriers to effectively detecting EA included a lack of EA detection instruments, as well as a lack of training on warning signs and risk factors. Officers indicated that the important elements of a desirable tool for helping to detect EA included ease of use, clear instructions, and information on follow-up resources. Approximately 80% of respondents could see themselves using the EASI© in the field, and a modified version has been developed for this purpose.