Improving Our Effectiveness in Working with Abusers: A Training for Elder Abuse and Neglect Caseworkers. Trainer's Guidebook.

This guidebook provides information for caseworkers who investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, financial exploitation and who also provide ongoing case management and follow-up with victims of abuse. The program focuses on caseworkers' attitudes and their knowledge and skills in dealing with abusers, particularly abusers who are chemically dependent. The guide arose from a research project which examined 537 substantiated cases of elder abuse and neglect cases so that investigators could understand better those interventions which reduced the risk of future abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation among the elderly. Researchers found that not all cases of elder abuse "get better." Cases least likely to improve over time include those involving chronic and/or severe abuse, substance abuse of the abuser, the abuser's inability to respond appropriately to stress, and the financial dependence of the abuser on the victim. Unfortunately, caseworkers frequently overlook information about the abuser during the initial investigation of abuse allegations and, subsequently, many intervention strategies do not focus on modifying or changing the abuser's behavior. Unless interventions include serious attempts at resolving the problems of abusers, the victims' situations are not likely to improve. The guidebook outlines the format and the materials needed for the program. Appendixes include: lifeboat rules, training evaluation, and a caseworker handbook. (RJM)