A model intervention for elder abuse and dementia

This article describes a 2-year collaborative project in Cleveland, OH, tha t improved the reporting and management of potential and suspected elder ab use situations involving persons with dementia. Educational curricula for c ross-training, screening tools, and referral protocols were developed and t ested for staff and volunteers in adult protective services and dementia ca re. A handbook for caregivers of persons with dementia was produced that en ables caregivers to self-identify elder abuse risk and seek appropriate int erventions to prevent abuse. Project organization, implementation, and eval uation are discussed along with strategies for replication in other communi ties.