Preventing and Responding to Abuse of Elders in Indian Country

摘要

Elder abuse spans a broad spectrum. It ranges from physical violence to the neglect of elders who depend on others for their basic needs. Over the past twenty years, states and local communities across the country have crafted policies and programs to stop abuse, treat its effects and prevent its recurrence. Most states have adopted laws, patterned after child abuse response programs, which enlist professionals and the public to report abuse to public agencies for investigation and follow up. Adult protective service (APS) programs are typically authorized to receive and investigate reports and assess victims needs for legal, health or social services.