Law enforcement has moved more quickly than other professions in developing training efforts, ranging from basic training in police academies to legal training for attorneys. Although training for prosecutors is not mandated yet in any State, prosecutors in some States are voluntarily learning how to investigate and prosecute elder abuse and neglect. The participants cited a desperate need for research and for the development of a national research agenda in the area of elder abuse and neglect. The experts agreed that incidence and prevalence studies relating to elder abuse and neglect are imperative. Broad-based research also needs to be done on what types of bruising, malnutrition, dehydration, falls, fractures, and pressure sores are indicators of potential abuse and neglect.
Research is needed in assessing all types of remedial efforts as well.
And although those on the frontlines strive to protect older people, there is little or no rigorous research to verify which efforts to prevent, intervene, treat, or prosecute are effective, and to what degree. Therefore, participants strongly recommended including a validated evaluation component in all ongoing and future programs to increase scientific rigor, legitimize outcomes, and stimulate further research spending. These efforts will enhance the body of knowledge in this area. The experts opined that the current demographic trend toward an older population could result in heightened awareness of the issue by medical and legal professionals. In addition, the current National Academy of Sciences study, sponsored by the National Institute on Aging, should expand the knowledge base and stimulate development of additional research proposals and funding in this area.