The elder abuse suspicion index: Results of a pilot study

Abstract

Elder abuse is a significant challenge in global societies. As we experience a demographic ageing transition, it is imperative that appropriate safeguarding systems are in place, which include the ability to identify elder abuse. This paper presents the piloting of the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index (EASI) in Ireland. It presents how the EASI was adapted to the Irish context by multi-disciplinary healthcare professionals in different settings. Findings from 716 older respondents demonstrate a suspicion of elder abuse in eleven percent of the sample. Findings also demonstrate that it is a challenge to convince older people to access formal safeguarding services. Conclusions point to the need for additional research to further establish the EASI positive predictive value and the need to empower older people to access appropriate services.