Resource Center

This is an online learning module created by the Native American Elder Justice Initiative. The materials presented in the elder justice curriculum are designed to help those working with Native American elderly to understand the various types of elder abuse and become more knowledgeable about elder abuse issues. The materials will assist staff in responding appropriately to Indigenous victims of crimes and their families and enhance provision of culturally sensitive services.

This training module for healthcare professionals focuses on how normal aspects of aging makes the elderly more vulnerable to abuse and neglect. It further addresses understanding the Indian Health Care process and barriers, culturally appropriate practice including American Indian, Alask Native, and Native Hawaiian traditional medicine, and recognizing the signs of elder abuse and documenting those signs in the patient chart.

Professionals who may find this module relevant include: physicians, nurses, certified nursing assistants (CNA), community health representatives (CHR), home health aids, psychologists, behavioral health consultants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, emergency medical technicians, and other medical personnel.

A downloadable fact sheet is also provided.

Learning objectives:
-Common age-related changes
-Research on elder mistreatment
-Identifying signs and physical injuries that may be indicators of possible elder abuse and neglect
-Identifying factors that place Native American elderly at higher risk for abuse or neglect by their caregivers
-Defining the responsibilities of medical and behavioral health providers who suspect elder abuse and neglect
-Recognizing warning signs and risk factors of elder abuse and neglect when screening elders with dementia
-Outlining reporting procedures to local authorities, including documenting elder abuse
-Assuring culturally appropriate practices with Native American elderly

Source: Native American Elder Justice Initiative (NAEJI), 2018
https://iasquared.org/naeji/