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. 2024 Nov-Dec;36(5):439-457.
doi: 10.1080/08946566.2024.2361633. Epub 2024 Jun 3.

Developing a model for providing feedback to reporters of elder abuse

Kristin Lees Haggerty  1 , Olanike Ojelabi  1 , Randi Campetti  1 , Athi Myint-U  1 , Kathy Greenlee  2
Affiliations

Developing a model for providing feedback to reporters of elder abuse

Kristin Lees Haggerty et al. J Elder Abuse Negl. 2024 Nov-Dec.

Abstract

Lack of feedback about reports made to Adult Protective Services (APS) is an important barrier to elder mistreatment reporting. To better understand barriers and facilitators to APS-reporter communication, we conducted an environmental scan of state policies and practices. We gathered publicly available information from 52 states and territories on APS administrative structure, reporting, intake, investigation, and feedback processes; performed a secondary analysis of focus groups with Emergency Medical Services providers and APS staff; and interviewed 44 APS leaders in 24 states/territories. Results revealed variation in information-sharing with reporters. Qualitative analyses revealed three overarching themes related to whether, when, and how information is shared. Results were used to develop a model illustrating factors influencing APS decisions on sharing information. This model incorporates the type of reporter (professional or nonprofessional), their relationship with the APS client (brief or ongoing), and the potential risks and benefits of sharing information with the reporter.

Keywords: Adult protection; communication; elder mistreatment; mandated reporting.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

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