Elder Abuse

Course Overview

This Mandatory Training Module explores elder abuse - one of the most challenging issues a healthcare worker may encounter. This module looks at elder abuse in the community and in residential care settings.

Note: all names, incidents and locations featured in the scenarios are fictional. The resemblance to any individual or circumstance is entirely coincidental.

Content warning: please be aware that this Module contains graphics and information relating to elder abuse that some people may find distressing.

Topics

• What constitutes elder abuse?
• How do you identify abuse?
• What is the correct process to follow when you suspect abuse of an older person?
• What are your legal roles and responsibilities?

Learning Outcomes

• Identify types of abuse of older people.
• Recognise the signs of elder abuse and report them correctly, being aware of the sensitivity of the situation.
• Understand the barriers to reporting abuse.

Target Audience

This module is relevant to nurses and healthcare workers in community and residential care settings.

Validation of Learning

1. Read all your organisation’s relevant policies and procedures on a regular basis. Remember to record this in your portfolio.
2. Reflect on what you have learned and if you will change your practice as a result. Document that in your portfolio too.
3. Engage in discussion with a colleague about this module and what you have learned.

Disclosure

This material was developed by the content expert listed below. It is presented by a professional presenter.

Educator

Linda Starr

Dr Linda Starr has undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in general, mental health nursing, law, education and a PhD in legal issues in elder abuse. Linda has extensive experience as an RN in metropolitan and rural locations, in general nursing, mental health, forensic health, aged care and management. She has held senior positions in academia, including the dean of the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Linda has publications in health law and forensic health issues. Linda is an associate professor in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Flinders University and a consultant educator in health law and ethics for nurses, midwives and carers. She is chair of the SA Board of Nursing and Midwifery, fellow of the College of Nursing Australia, foundation president of the Australian Forensic Nurses Association, member on the School of Health Academic Advisory Board for Open Colleges and the international member on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Forensic Nursing. See Educator Profile