Elder Justice/Caregiver Conference – Montgomery
Posted on June 1, 2016 by bob in Health, In Every Life
Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older persons can happen to anyone across all cultures and demographics, in their own home, in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities or other institutional settings. The Administration on Aging estimates only 
about 1/5 of the crimes are discovered. In 1998, the national Elder Abuse Incidence Study by the National Center on Elder Abuse at the American Public Human Services Association reported that authorities were aware of as few as 1 in 14 such cases.
Mistreatment may remain under-reported because victims:
1) may be unaware what they are experiencing is abuse or neglect
2) may be afraid the abuser will get in trouble
3) may feel embarrassed, be afraid the abuse will increase, or they will be forced to leave their home
In other cases those who are mistreated may be unable to report due to mental or physical impairment, isolation, or they may not be believed when they do report it.
Mistreatment of older persons is a public health and human rights issue. Increasing the awareness of what constitutes abuse, neglect or exploitation is expected to improve understanding that such actions are crimes. Categories of abuse and mistreatment include:
1) neglect
2) physical abuse
3) sexual abuse
4) financial abuse and exploitation
5) emotional or psychological abuse and neglect (including verbal abuse and threats)
6) abandonment
7) self-neglect
Current data indicate financial exploitation is
the most commonly reported type, and efforts to reduce these incidents include increasing awareness of people of all ages and strengthening laws.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, for the past 10 years designated on or about June 15, was launched by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The National Center on Elder Abuse provides information and links to statutes of various states. The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the U. S. Administration on Aging (AoA), also provide resources related to the protection of the rights of older persons.
Locally, the Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC) and the Montgomery County Elder Justice Task Force (formed by District Attorney Daryl Bailey and headed by Seth Gowan) are hosting an event June 17th in conjunction with World Elder Abuse Prevention Day. The Elder Justice and Caregiver Conference will be held at the Alabama Public Library Service. Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. with the conference running from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Speakers will include a representative from the Alabama Securities Commission; Dr. Walter Geary, Director of the Division of Health Care Facilities of the Alabama Department of Public Health; Daphne Simpkins, a professor and caregiver speaking about Alzheimer’s disease; and a discussion regarding potential caregiver liability.
The conference is for both family and professionals caregivers. Nurses, social workers, assisted living administrators, and nursing home administrators may be able to receive CEUs. Pre-conference registration is required as lunch will be provided. Individuals can pre-register by contacting CAAC at 334-240-4666.
Arlene Morris
Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.
