Elder Abuse Screening and Intervention

Abstract

Elder abuse and neglect are forms of family violence, a growing societal concern. Estimates suggest that 500,000 to 1.5 million cases of abuse and neglect occur annually in this country. This article describes the nurse practitioner's legal liability for reporting suspected cases of elder abuse and neglect. In addition, specific screening guidelines for this problem are outlined. Assessment parameters for evaluating suspected cases of elder abuse are described.