Detecting, Documenting and Reporting Incidents of Elder Abuse Research Paper by writingsensation

This paper provides a background of the problem of elder abuse followed by a review and discussion of the relevant literature. The study uses a retrospective review of adverse patient incident reports in selected Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) and domiciles in the United States. The paper determines what controlling legislation is in place and the associated responsibilities for healthcare practitioners. It notes that the next step involves detecting and substantiating cases of elder abuse when they occur or are suspected of having occurred. The paper further discusses what should be done when abuse has taken place. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion, where it is noted that virtually all sources suggest the rates of elder abuse are on the increase. However, the definitions of elder abuse have been sufficiently codified in recent years that such incidents can be identified and, when appropriate, reported, investigated and actions can be taken to prevent such abuse in the future.