Screening tools for identification of elder abuse: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Elder mistreatment is a growing global concern, exacerbated by population aging.
• Undetected abuse has severe health consequences for older adults.
• Lack of awareness, training, and reporting procedures hinders early detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy and accuracy of tools for detecting and measuring elder abuse in older populations.
• To identify validated screening instruments for elder mistreatment.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of comprehensive database searches (MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Scopus).
• Screening of 695 articles, with 11 included for analysis.
• Appraisal and analysis conducted using PRISMA Statement and STROBE checklist.

Main Results:

• Eleven screening tools (e.g., H-S/EAST, VASS, EASI) were identified.
• These tools are primarily for healthcare professionals, especially nurses.
• Some tools show moderate to good internal consistency and have been validated for early identification.

Conclusions:

• Assessment instruments should standardize screening to prevent missed signs of abuse.
• While some tools are validated, none have been evaluated against measurable violence or health outcomes.
• Routine screening by healthcare providers is recommended, but tool selection must be setting-appropriate, considering population and potential for combined use.