Responding to Elder Abuse in GERiAtric Care: Educational Intervention

Responding to Elder Abuse in GERiAtric Care Educational Intervention for Healthcare Providers: a Non-randomised Stepped Wedge Trial.

The prevalence of elder abuse has been reported between 10-15% in international studies. Elder abuse may include both physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse as well as neglect and it occurs at the hand of both professionals and family members, including adult children and intimate partners. Elder abuse has been associated with psychological ill-health, disability, increased hospitalization, emergency department use and admission to nursing facilities. Elder abuse is however often unknown to health care providers. Older adults are hesitant to disclose abuse and health care providers are often reluctant to ask questions.

In this study an interactive educational model for health care professionals about elder abuse will be tested. The model consist of theoretical lectures, brief films showing patient encounters, group discussions and forum play, a form of participatory theater. Both group discussions and forum play will be using case scenarios as a cornerstone.

The validated questionnaire REAGERA-P will be used for self-reported measures

Please refer to the uploaded study protocol for a detailed description of the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Employee at one of the clinics participating in the trial
• Work tasks involves direct patient contact, at least part time
• Participation at the training sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

• Only administrative work and no direct patient contact
• Not participating at the training session