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Susan M Farner, PhD and Michelle Nguyen, BS. Community Health Department, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 120 Huff Hall, 1206 S Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820, 217-333-6876, smfarner@yahoo.com
Elder mistreatment is a rising problem in American society. The elderly population is continuously growing and need special attention in many aspects of their lives. Elderly mistreatment today includes many aspects such as financial, emotional, and mental abuse. America’s elderly population faces the challenges of aging but also of being able to function in their environment with limited assistance and support from family. The ability of an elderly person to function in his/her environment depends on the treatment he/she receives from others. Thus, to function properly in an environment, a person must be healthy in both the mind and body. Elder mistreatment, especially in a rural community, prevents elders from living normal lives and functioning properly in their isolated environment. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of elder mistreatment awareness in a rural community in order to further assess the functionality level of seniors living independently. Three focus groups were conducted where a set of questions involving definitions and scenarios of elder abuse were employed to elicit responses from elderly participants. The level of awareness of elder abuse and mistreatment was assessed from these groups. The most efficient modes of providing education were explored. Also what programs are available in rural areas were discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Elderly, Rural Populations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.