# Presentation: 649834

## 
Presenter: ___________________
County: ____________________
Date: _____________________

*Presenter: ___________________*
*County: ____________________*
*Date: _____________________*

- Faith Leaders Respond to Elder Abuse

***“******Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother”***

**Notes:**

Presentation Notes:

Customization Notes:  As appropriate, the notes section includes
suggestions for ways to change individual slides so that the 
information reflects correct state/local policy and  procedures. 
Approaches for engaging participants and focusing discussion 
are also included in the notes.

Enter the appropriate information for the lead presenter and the location of the 
training event. 

## The elderly are not valued in America.  Yet, they are our parents and grandparents, the soldiers who landed at Normandy, the women who taught us to read.  The helped make this country what it is today.  They are my heroes...

- The elderly are not valued in America.  Yet, they are our parents and grandparents, the soldiers who landed at Normandy, the women who taught us to read.  The helped make this country what it is today.  They are my heroes...

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose: This slide provides an opportunity to set the stage for the 
presentation, reaffirming the value of older persons, their role in society, 
why they deserve to be free from abuse, neglect and exploitation. 

Customization Note:  This quote was selected by the author to reflect  her 
personal view about the value of older persons in society. Users may want 
select another quote from a favorite poem, the Bible, the Koran, the Torah
or other inspirational source. The quote/poem  provides an opportunity 
for audience reflection.  Participants may be asked to discuss their 
favorite reflections on older persons, their role in society, and the concept
of respect—from the individual perspective; from the societal  perspective.  

## Why Learn About Elder Abuse?
What is Elder Abuse?
Who Must Report Elder Abuse?
What is Adult Protective Services?
When Should I Report?
How Do I Make a Report?
What Can I Do In My Congregation?

- What is Elder Abuse?
- Who Must Report Elder Abuse?
- What is Adult Protective Services?
- When Should I Report?
- How Do I Make a Report?
- What Can I Do In My Congregation?

- Overview

- Overview

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This presentation will provide answers to the listed questions.
The answers are targeted specifically to the role and interests of 
‘faith leaders’.

Customization Note:   A presenter my want to change the last question by 
customizing it for the particular community involved. For example, “What 
Can I do in the Southern Pennsylvania Lutheran Synod’?  The question
is generic however, so depending on the situation, no changes may 
be needed. 

## Why Learn About Elder Abuse?

*Why Learn About Elder Abuse?*

**Faith leaders:**
**Are often the first stop for help;**
**May be the only other person (except  the abuser) in the victim’s life;**
**Will be better prepared to help congregants;**
**May be required (by state law) to report.**
**	****Knowing the warning signs... may save a life.**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  These points are the foundation of the presentation. They state 
the key reasons why faith leaders are so critical in helping to identify and 
assist victims of elder abuse.

Customization Note:  The presenter should take a few moments to 
discuss each point.  Ask participants to suggest additional reasons 
why faith leaders are important.  This may provide an opportunity for 
participants to discuss the role of faith leaders in addressing isolation of older 
persons in the community. 

## What Is Elder Abuse?		

- Elder Abuse:
*any knowing, intentional, or negligent act*
*by a caregiver or any other person *
*that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable older person.**
- Types of abuse
*physical, emotional, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, abandonment, and neglect** *
- *General definition used by the National Center on Elder Abuse. For more information see NCEA
- Web site: http://www.elderabusecenter.org* *

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides the definitions used by the National Center
on Elder Abuse.  A definitional framework helps to assure that all participants
have a common language for discussing the various forms of abuse. 

Customization Note:  Use this slide to call attention to the words: knowing,
intentional, and negligent acts.  Ask the co-presenter  (APS) to provide 
examples of cases to distinguish intentional and negligent acts.  

## A large problem—2-10% of older American population may be victims

A hidden problem—Only 1 in 5 victims are identified

A family problem—Perpetrators are often family members and people known to the elder

A serious problem—Abused elders four times more likely to die prematurely

**A hidden problem—**Only 1 in 5 victims are identified
**A family problem—**Perpetrators are often family members and people known to the elder
**A serious problem—**Abused elders four times more likely to die prematurely

*What Is Elder Abuse?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide helps to stress the point that abuse does occur, 
that it happens more frequently than many would like to think.

Customization Notes:  While conclusive data is lacking, estimates are that 
2-5 million older persons may be abused.  Focusing on ‘hidden’ may permit
a connection to the previous discussion of ‘isolation’.  Participants may draw
parallels with other forms of family violence – child abuse, domestic violence. 
The premature death bullet suggests both a public health and a moral 
challenge.

## In (your state), the following categories of abuse are defined in law:

*What Is Elder Abuse?*

## Occurs wherever
older Americans live
Own home
Apartment
Public housing
Nursing home
Board and care 
Assisted living
Relative’s home 

- Occurs wherever
- older Americans live
- Own home
- Apartment
- Public housing
- Nursing home
- Board and care
- Assisted living
- Relative’s home

*Where Does Elder Abuse Occur?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

Purpose:  This slide illustrates that abuse can occur anywhere, not only
in the elder person’s home but in group living situations such as nursing
homes, board and care homes, as well as in the homes of relatives. 

Customization Notes:  Your community may use different terms for 
some of these residential sites (e.g. “boarding homes” instead of “board 
and care homes.”) 

## Who Are the Victims?

*Who Are the Victims?*

- Men and women. Women more likely to be identified and reported
- Socially isolated
- Have dementia (stroke, Alzheimer’s disease)
- Have mental illness or physical infirmities
- Are trusting of others
- Many are over 80 years old

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

Purpose:  This slide summarizes some of the common characteristics 
which make elder abuse victims particularly vulnerable.

Customization Notes:  This slide provides another opportunity for the 
participants to identify past situations that, on reflection, might have been 
elder abuse related.  Stress the fact that the problem affects both men
and women. This may also be  a time for the APS co-presenter to under-
line the message with data on elder abuse victims in your area.  

## What About Adults with Disabilities?

- 10 times more likely to be sexually assaulted
- Less likely to report abuse
- Lower rates of police follow-up, prosecution, conviction

*What About Adults with Disabilities?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

Purpose:   While this educational presentation is focused on “elders,” 
it may be appropriate to share these points related to adults with 
disabilities.  APS may also serve this group. 

Customization Notes:   Ask the APS co-presenter to describe some 
cases, and to also describe distinctions and commonalities found with 
elder abuse cases. 

Delete this slide if the adult protective/elder abuse statute does not 
cover adults with disabilities.

## What are Red Flags?	

- Have mental health issues
- Dependent on the older person, unemployed – no personal income
- Family members, friends, neighbors, new “best friend”
- Provider of care (paid or unpaid)

*What are Red Flags?**	*

- Potential Abusers*	*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

Purpose:  This and the following slide respond to the question: who could 
do this?  Who could abuse an older person?  

Customization Notes:  Ask the participants what connections they see 
between these ‘red flags’ and other forms of family violence.  Provide  
examples of potential abuser’s dependence on the elder.  Explore the 
the potential for widows/widowers to be vulnerable to ‘new best 
friends’. 

## Who are the Abusers?	

- Spouses
- Adult Children
- Other Relatives 	(grandchildren,
- 	nieces, nephews)
- Friends, Neighbors
- Caregivers
- Others

- Who are the Abusers?*	*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide shows the list of who are the most common alleged 
perpetrators of elder abuse, according to state adult protective service
data.

Customization Notes:  Use this slide to underscore that elder abuse is 
a family problem - that a victim usually knows and has a personal 
relationship with the alleged perpetrator. This is not a problem of crime 
committed by strangers.  If a co-presenter from adult protective services 
is present, ask him/her to provide data about the victims and 
the perpetrators in your state.

## Facts and Figures in Our Area	

- In (state/county), the data shows that:

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides a place for state/local data on elder abuse. 
Numbers can be obtained from the state adult protective services office. 
Include information about the numbers and types of reports; profile of 
Victims, profile of alleged abusers. Use additional slides, as necessary.

Customization Notes:  This provides an opportunity to present the 
number of elder abuse reports received in your state/county.  Be sure 
to identify the time period reflected by the data.  Ask your adult protective 
service co-presenter to comment on: whether or not the numbers are 
increasing; what areas of the state are most affected, and what are the 
most common situations reported to adult protective services.  

## More Facts and Figures...

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

Purpose:  Use this slide for additional state/local data. 

Customization Notes:  If not needed, you may delete this slide.

## Why Abuse Is Not Reported	

- Ageism—Unfavorable attitude towards older people
- Disbelief—“They’re such an upstanding family”
- Lack of knowledge of signs of abuse
- Lack of knowledge of reporting procedures
- Reluctance or fear of confronting the offender
- Fear of jeopardizing relationship with elder or elder’s family
- Mistreated person requests it not be reported

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides a list of potential reasons that elder abuse 
remains a hidden problem.

Customization Notes:  Use this slide to underscore the importance of 
learning the signs of elder abuse and where to make a referral.  Spend 
some time talking about the ‘fears’ engendered in reporting – i.e., 
confronting the offender, losing the relationship with the elder.  
Use this slide to focus on the dilemma posed by the elder refusing help.  
Think with the audience of ways to build trust with the elder and ways 
to address his/her fears.

## SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE

***SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE***

## 
Elder's report of being mistreated

Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated bed sores, poor personal hygiene  
Unattended/untreated health problems  
Hazardous or unsafe living conditions: improper wiring, no heat, no running water  
Unsanitary living conditions—dirt, fleas, lice, soiled bedding, fecal/urine odors, inadequate clothing 

- Elder's report of being mistreated
- Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated bed sores, poor personal hygiene
- Unattended/untreated health problems
- Hazardous or unsafe living conditions: improper wiring, no heat, no running water
- Unsanitary living conditions—dirt, fleas, lice, soiled bedding, fecal/urine odors, inadequate clothing

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  The following slides help the audience understand the 
vocabulary used in the elder abuse field; and provide some examples of 
what they might see and/or hear described by the elder, family, friends 
or neighbors.

Customization Note:  The adult protective service representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate these types of abuse.

***Warning Signs    *****       Abandonment**

-   Elder's own report of being abandoned
-   Desertion of an elder at a

-  nursing facility or other similar institution
-  shopping center
-  other public location

- What are some Warning Signs of*	***                     *****Abandonment?******	***

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides explanation of this type of abuse. The previous and 
following slides help the audience understand the vocabulary used in the 
elder abuse field and provide some examples of what they might see 
and/or hear from the elder, family, friends or neighbors.

Customization Note:  The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate these types of abuse.

## Physical Abuse Warning Signs

-  Elder’s report of being hit, slapped, kicked, etc..
-  Findings of medication over- or under-utilization
-  Signs of being punished or restrained
-  Elder's sudden change in behavior
-  Caregiver's refusal to allow visitors to see
- 	 an elder alone

- What are some Warning Signs of*	* ***Physical Abuse?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides explanation of this type of abuse.  It helps  the 
audience understand the vocabulary used in the elder abuse field and 
provides some examples of what they might see and/or hear from the 
elder, family, friends, or neighbors.

Customization Note:   The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate this type of abuse.

## What are some Warning Signs of	 Physical Abuse?	

- Bruises, black eyes, welts, lacerations, rope marks
- Broken or fractured bones, skull fractures
- Open wounds, cuts, punctures, untreated injuries in various stages of healing
- Sprains, dislocations, bleeding
- Broken eyeglasses or frames

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides explanation of this type of abuse.  It helps  the 
audience understand the vocabulary used in the elder abuse field and 
provides some examples of what they might see and/or hear from the 
elder,family, friends, or neighbors.

Customization Note:   The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate this type of abuse.

## What are some Warning Signs of	 Financial Abuse?	

-   practice
- Inclusion of additional names on bank signature
-   card
- Unauthorized withdrawal using elder's ATM
- Abrupt changes in will or other financial documents
- Unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable
-   possessions

- What are some Warning Signs of*	* ***Financial Abuse?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides explanation of this type of abuse.  The examples
help the audience understand the vocabulary used in the 
elder abuse field and provide some examples of what they might see 
and/or hear from the elder, family, friends or neighbors.

Customization Note:  The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate this type of abuse.

## Warning Signs Financial Abuse

- Disparity between assets and living conditions
- Forged signature on financial transactions or titles of possessions
- Sudden appearance of previously uninvolved relatives claiming rights to elder's affairs and possessions
- Unexplained sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family
- Elder's report of financial exploitation

- What are some Warning Signs of	 ***Financial Abuse?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes:

See the notes for the previous slide.

## Warning Signs                 Emotional Abuse

- Elder's report of being verbally or emotionally mistreated.
- Emotionally upset or agitated
- Extremely withdrawn, non-communicative, non-responsive
- Unusual behavior usually attributed to dementia—sucking, biting, rocking

- What are some Warning Signs of*	* ***Emotional Abuse?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides an explanation of this type of abuse.  The examples
help the audience understand the vocabulary used in the elder abuse field
and provide some examples of what they might see 
and/or hear from the elder, family, friends or neighbors.

Customization Note:  The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate this type of abuse.

## Warning Signs                       Sexual Abuse

- Bruises around the breasts or genital area
- Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing
- Elder's report of being sexually assaulted or raped

- Elder's report of being sexually assaulted or raped
- Bruises around the breasts or genital area
- Unexplained venereal disease or genital infections
- Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing

- What are some Warning Signs of*	* ***Sexual Abuse?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides explanation of this type of abuse. The examples
help the audience understand the vocabulary used in the 
elder abuse field and provide some examples of what they might see 
and/or hear from the elder, family, friends or neighbors.

Customization Note:  The adult protective services representative may 
have case examples to further illustrate this type of abuse.

## 
When the person because of depression, confusion, dementia or alcoholism does not take care of him or herself.

Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated or improperly attended medical conditions, poor personal hygiene

Hazardous or unsanitary living conditions

Inappropriate or inadequate clothing

Lack of the necessary medical aids—eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures

Homelessness

- When the person because of depression, confusion, dementia or alcoholism does not take care of him or herself.
- Dehydration, malnutrition, untreated or improperly attended medical conditions, poor personal hygiene
- Hazardous or unsanitary living conditions
- Inappropriate or inadequate clothing
- Lack of the necessary medical aids—eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures
- Homelessness

- What are some Warning Signs of*	* ***Self Neglect?*****	**

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide an explanation of the concept of ‘self neglect’ so that
the audience knows what it is and how it relates to the problem of elder 
abuse.

Customization Notes:  Call attention to the distinction: with this form
of elder abuse, there is no second-party ‘perpetrator’– the older person 
is in dire straits and may need a range of services. According  to state
APS data, self-neglect cases constitute the bulk of reports they receive.  
Encourage the audience to discuss the distinctions between self-neglect, 
neglect by others (Slide #17) and other forms of abuse by a second party.

## Is Elder Abuse a Crime?	

-  Penal Code Section ____
-     provides that:

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide a explanation of if/how elder abuse is addressed in 
your states criminal statutes.

Customization Notes:  Delete this slide if your state does not include elder
abuse in the penal code. If appropriate, address whether or not there are 
enhanced penalties for crimes committed against vulnerable adults. 

## If I Suspect Abuse...	                    What Should I Do?

- You play an important role as a “sentinel” or “gatekeeper” for an abused person in your community
- If you suspect that something is amiss, call your local Adult Protective Services Program.  It is not your responsibility to investigate abuse
- APS will consult with you about the case.  If they believe a report needs to be made, they will take the necessary information from you

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides a key message – act if you are worried 
about someone, or if you think they need help.  A ‘sentinel’ is not 
Expected to have proof or know conclusively that abuse occurred or is 
occurring. Rather, he/she is sensitive to the signs and knowledgeable 
about where to go for help.

Customization Notes:  This would be a good time to provide local 
brochures pamphlets or cards with the state/local report numbers listed.  
Discuss the distinction in roles: that a sentinel is someone who – points 
to a potential problem; but adult protective services, because of legal 
responsibility and special training  is the best entity to conduct an 
assessment  of the situation and offer appropriate services.

## Are Clergy Required to Report?

- In (your state) the reporting policy:

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides an opportunity to highlight whether or not clergy 
are mentioned as mandated reporters in your state elder abuse/adult protective
services statute.

Customization Note:  If clergy are mentioned, provide the code reference and discuss 
the background of mandatory reporting in your state: when it was initiated, whether/how
the list of mandated reporters has changed over time. Identify if there are any exemptions, I.e.,  Catholic priests may not be required to report incidents of abuse revealed during confession. 

If clergy are not mandated, discuss their obligations based on what your statute requires, i.e., anyone who suspects elder abuse is under obligation to report.  

Foster dialogue about ‘moral’ and ‘legal” responsibilities relative to suspected elder abuse situations.  

## Adult Protective Services (APS)

- An essential part of our community safety net.
-  Helps vulnerable adults who are in danger of being
-    mistreated or neglected
-  Helps those unable to protect themselves

- Adult Protective Services (APS)

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This and the following slide provides a general context for focusing 
on adult protective services, their role and position in the community service system. 

Customization Notes:  An APS representative should be invited to present this 
section of the training.   

## What Does APS Do?	

- Prevents and alleviates harm resulting from abuse, neglect or exploitation:
- Receives reports
- Investigates needs and risks
- Develops case plans
- Provides and monitors services
- Offers needed services
- Competent adults may refuse APS help
- Collaborates with other services to meet elders’ needs

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides general description of APS role and responsibilities

Customization Notes:  Provide an example of the case planning 
role, how APS collaborates with other agencies. Call attention to the 
phrase... competent adults may refuse APS help.  Ask your APS 
co-presenter to explain what this means. Provide a case example 
to further illustrate the ways in which APS must honor the rights and 
decisions of competent elders.  

## Our (state/area) APS program includes: 

- What Does APS Do?

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide a description of your adult protective service program

Customization Notes:  Describe the APS program in your area.  Include 
the legal authority, types of settings covered, summary information on the 
types of cases handled, and specific services provided in your area.  Add 
additional slides, as necessary. Provide a handout which summarizes 
your state/community  Adult Protective Services Program. 

## 

	To report abuse that occurs in the Community (i.e. private home, hotel, senior center) 

	Call:

- 	To report abuse that occurs in the Community (i.e. private home, hotel, senior center)
- 	Call:

- Who Should I Call?

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides a place to emphasize the phone number
for reporting elder abuse that occurs in the community.

Customization Notes:  The phone number may also be in the APS 
Brochure but should be listed on the slide as well, for emphasis.  List the 
local agency name and the reporting phone number.  If possible, identify 
a staff contact for clergy representatives who may wish to discuss 
aspects of a case before making a report. 

## Adult Protective Services (APS)

- LTCO is a unique, nationwide program
-  Provides advocacy for residents of nursing
-    homes,  board and care, and other long term
-    care facilities.

- Long Term CareOmbudsman(LTCO)

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide and the next two provide an overview of the Long Term Care 
Ombudsman Program.  It is important for clergy to know about this program, how 
it can assist residents, and its role in elder abuse prevention, identification and intervention.

Customization Notes:  A representative of the Long Term Care Ombudsman program 
should be invited to present this section.  Provide handout materials describing the program.     

## What Does the LTCO Do?	

**Advocate for Residents**
- Receives and resolves *complaints* about resident care
*Educates* residents, families and communities on
- Resident Rights
- Quality Care
*Collaborates* on policy change to meet resident needs

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Customization Notes:  A representative of the LTCO program should 
be invited to present this section and provide examples of these types of
activities. 

## What Does the LTCO Do?

- Our LTCO program includes:

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provides basic information on the state/local Long Term Care 
Ombudsman Program.

Customization Notes:  Describe the program in your area. Include role 
In elder abuse reporting and investigation.  Describe the types of 
Facilities covered.  Provide summary information about complaints 
and resolutions. Provide examples of complaints resolved.  Describe 
how the program coordinates with adult protective services.  Use 
additional slides, as necessary.  

## Who Should I Call?	

-    Call:

- Who Should I Call?

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides a place to emphasize the phone number 
for reporting elder abuse that occurs in nursing homes and other types of 
group living arrangements. 

Customization Notes:  Based on states law/procedures, there may be 
multiple numbers that should be listed on this slide. Pertinent numbers 
may also be in brochure for the Long Term Care Ombudsman program. 
List the numbers on  the slide, as well, for added emphasis.  List the 
local agency name. If possible, identify a staff contact for clergy 
representatives who may wish to discuss aspects of a case before 
making a report.

## 
Be patient

Do not act shocked, keep your demeanor calm

Reassure the person that he or she is not to blame

Let him or her know that he or she is not alone. 

- Be patient
- Do not act shocked, keep your demeanor calm
- Reassure the person that he or she is not to blame
- Let him or her know that he or she is not alone.

- If someone tells me about abuse... *What Should I Do?**	*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This and following slides remind the audience of the ways
they can be of greatest help to the elder. 

Customization Notes:  This advice is a ‘reminder’ about sensitivity 
to the needs and concerns of victims. 

## I have never reported before... What is Involved?	

- 	In (state/area), the protocol for reporting elder abuse includes:

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide a step-by-step direction about getting help for older 
victims.

Customization Notes:  Some of this information may be on a separate 
handout or brochure.  Be sure to include information on where reports
can be made concerning non-deceased victims and long term care facility
residents.  Address additional issues such as whether or not anonymous 
reports are accepted, and whether or not an abuse reporter can expect 
follow-up information, etc. 

## What information do I give?

- Your name
- Victim’s name
- Victims address/location
- Your observations and concerns
- Who is the suspected abuser?
- Can the victim walk, hear, see, etc.?
- Anyone else who should be contacted.
- Contact information.

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Make sure that the audience knows what type of information
to provide when they call adult protective services with a potential 
elder abuse referral.

Customization Note:  Add other necessary information required by 
your state/local adult protective services program.  	

## In (state/area) the policy includes:

*Do I have to make a written report?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide additional clarification regarding the reporting
Procedure.

Customization Notes:  Include the state/local policy for written reports. 
Is there a standard form?  How does one obtain it?  Can it be faxed?  
Are e-mail reports accepted?  How long does one have (after telephone
report) to submit a written form? 

## What happens after I report?

- You can expect a professional & confidential  response:

*What happens after I report?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  State/local information should be included to help the 
audience understand what occurs when and after a report is made.

Customization Notes:  List the usual and emergency actions taken by 
the APS program following the receipt of the report.  Are all reports 
investigated?  When are  ‘face-to-face’ visits completed?  What types of 
cases might be screened-out at intake? Provide additional information 
to help the audience understand the operational procedures of APS.  

##     I am not a trained investigator...	    		How can I recognize abuse? 

- No one expects you to be the experts on abuse or to know all the warning signs
- Sometimes abuse is so obvious that there is no question whether to report it
- If you are concerned and you think something is going on, call the professionals at APS.  They are trained to investigate and make that decision

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  The message on this slide is provided to help allay audience 
fears about ‘being sure” that the situation is abuse.  

Customization Notes:  Use this opportunity to acknowledge that there 
may be doubts about reporting a situation that may  or may not turn out 
to be substantiated abuse.  Stress that clergy are not expected to be 
experts, but their help is needed to connect elders with the APS experts.  

## What if I don’t report?

*What if I don’t report?*

-    In (your state), if a mandated reporter fails to report abuse:

**Notes:**
 Presentation Notes

Purpose:   Call attention to penalties, if any, established in state law for 
failure to report suspected elder abuse.

Customization Notes:   Are there penalties in your state law for mandated reporters who do not report?  If so, list them on this slide.  Provide any background that is known about ‘failure to report’. The APS co-presenter
may best address this issue.  

## Are there times when...	  I should not report?

- The short answer is, **no**:
- Some Faith Leaders believe that they can assist an elder or a family without reporting abuse
- If you have been told,
-     or reasonably believe
-     that abuse is taking place,
-     it is *very important* that
-     you report it
- Let the experts assist the elder and the family.

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  The purpose here is to address the ‘fear of reporting’ and 
continue building a connection between the audience/clergy and the 
adult protective services system.

Customization Notes:  Discuss with the audience their perspectives 
and fears about reporting.  Solicit suggesting for overcoming these 
barriers.  

## What about my relationship with my congregation member?

**Abused persons will often drop hints or tell**
**someone about the abuse because they know**
**they need help**
- If, having been told about the abuse, you do not report it, you may be sending a message to the older person that what is happening to them is not serious
- In addition, in (your state), if you do not report reasonable suspicions, there are/are not legal consequences

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Continue to underline the importance of the clergy as 
sentinels helping to identify elder abuse and connect victims with 
appropriate interventions. 

Customization Notes:  Adjust the 3rd bullet on this slide to reflect 
your state law - whether or not there are legal consequences for 
failure to report. 	

## You can help prevent it before it gets serious:

Take time to meet alone with the older person.  Tell him or her what you know about some of the risk factors of elder abuse (e.g., adult child who is financially dependent).

Tell him/her of your concern.

Explain the role of APS. Encourage him/her to seek help before abuse occurs or worsens.

- Take time to meet alone with the older person.  Tell him or her what you know about some of the risk factors of elder abuse (e.g., adult child who is financially dependent).
- Tell him/her of your concern.
- Explain the role of APS. Encourage him/her to seek help before abuse occurs or worsens.

- 	*What if I see early warning signs **	**	**	**	**	**of abuse?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Encourage clergy to play a role in protecting vulnerable 
members of the congregation.

Customization Notes:  Ask the audience for some examples - older 
persons who, looking back, may have been at-risk for elder abuse.  
Stress the unique role of clergy as trusted counselors to their 
congregation members. 

## What if the elder wants help but...	

- The elder may want help but doesn’t want to get the alleged abuser in trouble.
- This is a very common response of older abused people, especially when the abuser is a family member
-  Remind the abused person that help is available to him or her and that it is better to seek help than to try to handle a difficult situation alone.
-  Encourage them to talk with APS
-  APS may be able to refer the alleged abuser to services (e.g., drug or alcohol treatment), however, these are also voluntary and may be rejected by the abuser

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Prepare the audience for common reactions from elders.  
Many elders seeking help from adult protective services have conflicted 
feelings about protecting of family members who are abusers.

Customization Notes:  Use this slide to discuss parallels with other 
forms family/domestic violence.  Discuss issues of shame, love, 
protection and how best to assist the victim. 

## The elder may seem confused. It’s not clear that he/she understands the situation.

 Sometimes dementia, mental illness, or other factors may hamper an older person’s cognition 

 An assessment may indicate that the elder does not have the capacity to make informed judgments about his or her care.

Adult Protective Services, may, on an emergency basis, or with court approval, act on behalf of the elder’s best interest, even without his or her consent. 

The procedure for such actions varies from state to state

-  Sometimes dementia, mental illness, or other factors may hamper an older person’s cognition
-  An assessment may indicate that the elder does not have the capacity to make informed judgments about his or her care.
- Adult Protective Services, may, on an emergency basis, or with court approval, act on behalf of the elder’s best interest, even without his or her consent.
- The procedure for such actions varies from state to state

*What if the elder seems confused...*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides the opportunity to discuss issues of 
competency, capacity and the role of adult protective services in 
providing emergency, and/or involuntary services.

Customization Notes:  Ask the APS representative to explain the 
APS authority to act on behalf of the elder:  What procedures are 
Followed? How his/her rights are protected?  What are the roles of 
health care professionals? The courts? Others?

## What about “caregiver stress” and elder abuse?

- The abuser says that “caregiver stress” is causing the abuse, how can I help?
- Caregiving is, without question, a stressful endeavor.  However, research shows that stress related to caregiving is not the cause of elder abuse.  Some people should not be entrusted with care of an elder. If these people become caregivers, they may abuse and blame the stress for the abuse.
- Be careful not to come to the support of the caregiver without also seriously considering the safety of the older person.  The safety of the older person should be your foremost concern.

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  This slide provides an opportunity to discuss a current elder 
abuse myth i.e., that the stresses of care giving causes elder abuse.

Customization Notes:  Use this opportunity to applaud and recognize 
the significant services provided to elders by their families.  Make 
distinctions, however, between intentional, on-going abusive behavior 
and a one-time outburst by a well-intentioned, loving but overwhelmed 
caregiver. Remember, abusers may be domineering, controlling or 
sadistic family members. They may physically harm, steal-from, belittle 
and threaten the elder.

Only a thorough, unbiased investigation by APS can uncover the facts.    

## What about forgiveness?  

- Shouldn’t the abusers be forgiven?
- Forgiveness does not mean returning to an abusive situation.
- An abused person may one day find that forgiveness is possible.
- However, no one should be told to put up with an abusive situation because their faith calls on them to forgive the abuser’s transgressions.

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide an opportunity for the audience to discuss 
the concept of forgiveness in the context of elder abuse.  Focus on the 
well-being of the elder. 

## What Can Faith Leaders Do?

**Educate yourself and other Faith Leaders **about elder abuse
**Create a Safe Place for Elders **by making your place of worship a place where elderly victims can come forward for help.
**Educate the Congregation **on the subject of violence against and fraud and abuse of elders.
**Talk with other Faith Leaders** about** **a regular meeting on issues of family violence.

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Identify concrete actions faith communities can take to assist
elder abuse victims.

Customization Notes:  Take time to discuss each suggestion.  How 
could it work?  What would be needed to get started?  Are there existing 
examples or programs to build on.  What first steps would be needed
to move in a positive direction?

## Establish a Friendly Visitor Program

Create a Nurse Program for homebound elders

Break the silence about abuse
Give a sermon that mentions abuse in vulnerable populations  
Make it clear that this type of behavior is not condoned

Intervene
Do not turn a blind eye or a deaf ear to the clues of abuse  

**Establish a Friendly Visitor Program**
**Create a Nurse Program** for homebound elders
**Break the silence about abuse**
- Give a sermon that mentions abuse in vulnerable populations
- Make it clear that this type of behavior is not condoned
**Intervene**
- Do not turn a blind eye or a deaf ear to the clues of abuse ** **

*What Can Faith Leaders Do?*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Customization Notes:  Take time to discuss each suggestion.  How 
could it work?  What would be needed to get started?  Are there existing 
examples or programs to build on.  What first steps would be needed
to move in a positive direction?

## An Elder

*A person whose life continues to have promise for and connection to the future:*
*    ...**still growing,*
*  ...**still a learner,*
*     ...**still with potential*

**Notes:**
Presentation Notes

Purpose:  Provide a philosophical conclusion to the presentation and a 
reason for joining the campaign to assist elder abuse victims.

Customization Notes:  The presenter may have an alternate quote
or concept to share as the concluding slide which you may want to 
substitute for this  thought.