Elder abuse protocols: identifying key features and establishing evidence for their use and effectiveness

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Social Work

Background:

• Elder abuse protocols are crucial for guiding staff responses.
• The effectiveness of existing protocols is often unclear due to a lack of evaluation.
• The Alliance for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: Western Australia's 2013 Protocol required critical review and updating.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review, evaluate, and update the 2013 Alliance for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: Western Australia Protocol.
• To identify key features of effective elder abuse protocols through literature review.
• To gather stakeholder feedback on the usefulness and effectiveness of the existing protocol and identify areas for improvement.

Main Methods:

• A critical literature review was conducted to identify essential components of elder abuse protocols.
• Three focus groups (N=19) and an online survey (N=44) were employed to assess the 2013 Protocol's utility and effectiveness.
• Qualitative and quantitative data were collected to inform protocol revisions.

Main Results:

• Seventy percent of survey respondents were familiar with the 2013 Protocol, and all found it useful.
• Key suggested updates included: example policies, screening tools, risk assessment guidance, enhanced training for front-line workers, and information for diverse populations.
• An updated Protocol was developed based on the findings.

Conclusions:

• The updated Protocol, supported by stakeholder education, aims to enhance staff responses to elder abuse.
• Ongoing maintenance and adaptation are necessary for the Protocol in a dynamic service environment.
• Future iterations could benefit from online platforms and enhanced response support features.