2. Elder Abuse Recognizing and Reporting

When should a pharmacist (“your duty”) report these and to who:

• physical abuse

• when the the abuse is caused by a resident with diagnosed dementia

Define Ombudsmen

• (plural of ombudsman) are independent officials or offices that investigate complaints from the public about organizations, especially governments, agencies, or large institutions.

  • Should have a direct contact to a legislative body

  • Resource for the people (employees/patients?)

• Their main role is to act as a neutral intermediary between individuals and the organization being complained about.

Why Pharmacists specifically have the duty of reporting elder abuse?

Define what Elder Abuse is

Who is protected by Elders Abuse Laws

Elder abuse - Who’s most at risk (4)

Types of Abuse (7)

Decubitus ulcers, or bedsores, are damage to skin and underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure, friction, or shear, commonly affecting bony areas like hips, heels, and the tailbone

• Really hard to treat

• If these are neglected b/c cannot see the ulcers = leads to death, must check for these

How does financial abuse occur

What new risks emerging in financial abuse (2)

Physical Signs of elder abuse (5)

Emotional/behavioral signs (4)

Financial Signs (3)

How common is abuse

Long term effects (6)

Who abuses?

What can Pharmacists do?

How to report abuse

• In the community

• In residential facilities

What to include in your report

Adult protective services

Who can help