Although estimates vary, it is generally believed that 11% of the elderly are abused. According to the National Incidence Study on Elder Abuse, approximately 450,000 elderly experienced abuse each year. If self-neglect is included, the number increases to 551,000. Elder mistreatment is too large of a problem for any one person or one discipline to resolve. Incorporating the expertise of all the members of the interprofessional healthcare team is critical to determine the facts in the situation and the motives of the people involved.
The University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTSHC) Reynolds Interprofessional Geriatric Education and Training in Texas (IGET-IT) Program has developed this Fall Risk Assessment and Education module as part of the Interprofessional Communication Improvement Modules (ICIM) Elder Safety series. The ICIM Elder Safety modules were created in collaboration with the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME) and are supported, in part, by a generous grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. The goal of the Elder Safety ICIMs is to provide an innovative and sustainable program to improve the ability of physicians to work with other health disciplines in teams to provide better care for geriatric patients. The care of older adults can be very complex and studies have shown that a team approach can be most effective in leading to quality outcomes.
This activity is intended for residents, practicing physicians, and related health care professions.
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to: