ED27: The Dental Provider as a Mandatory Reporter of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse affects 1.5 million American older adults and spans all races, genders, and socioeconomic statuses; but, only 1 in 24 suspected cases are reported. In all 50 states, health care providers are mandatory elder abuse reporters and 19 states specifically list the dental professional as mandatory reporters. However, dental professionals nationwide report a lack of knowledge and confidence assessing and reporting suspected abuse. This course provides information on red flags for elder abuse, assessments to screen for abuse, and information on where & how to report suspected cases. The course will prepare the dental provider to recognize the signs of and report suspected cases of elder abuse.<