The role of health care providers in recognizing and reporting elder abuse

The incidence of abuse cases in older adults is on the rise. Health care providers play an important role in recognizing and reporting abuse, the first step of which is to prepare themselves with knowledge regarding abuse. This consists of knowing the risk factors and signs and symptoms of abuse and how to report it. Of equal importance is knowledge of ethical implications, legalities, and ways to prevent elder abuse. Health care providers must take advantage of their unique roles to assess for mistreatment as well as to spread knowledge on recognizing, reporting, and preventing elder abuse.