Adult Protective Services Professionals with Clients and Families at the End of Life: Challenges and Support Needs
2024

Challenges and Support Needs of Adult Protective Services Workers

Sample size: 36 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Xue Wei-Lin, Ernst Joy

Primary Institution: Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States

Hypothesis

What challenges do Adult Protective Services workers face when dealing with elder abuse at the end of life?

Conclusion

APS workers encounter significant challenges and emotional impacts while addressing elder abuse, highlighting the need for better support and collaboration.

Supporting Evidence

  • Caregiver neglect and financial exploitation are the most frequent forms of elder abuse encountered by APS workers.
  • APS professionals face challenges such as balancing client self-determination and navigating family issues.
  • The study highlights the need for increased interagency collaboration and organizational support for APS workers.

Takeaway

This study shows that people who help elderly individuals often face tough situations and need more support to do their jobs well.

Methodology

The research involved seven focus groups and one individual interview with APS workers and related professionals.

Limitations

The study may not capture all experiences of APS workers across different regions.

Participant Demographics

Participants included social workers, nurses, and other allied professionals.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2920

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