Challenges in Elder Mistreatment Programs and Policy

Abstract

Programs serving victims of elder mistreatment face numerous policy challenges including unclear definitions of key terms, an insubstantial and methodologically weak research base, underdeveloped causal theories and practice models, porous statutes and policies, and the absence of federal or other unified funding and directing mechanisms. Elder mistreatment issues provide numerous opportunities for gerontologi-cal social work participation and calls for the unique contributions that the profession of social work brings to an increasingly multidisciplinary effort.

Key Words:

• Elder abuse
• elder mistreatment
• abuse and neglect
• adult protective services
• gerontological social workers