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A randomized-control trial testing the impact of a multidisciplinary team response to older adult maltreatment

NCJ Number
301697
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 31 Issue: 4-5 Dated: 2019 Pages: 307-324
Author(s)
A. P. DePrince ; et al
Date Published
2019
Length
18 pages
Annotation

This study employed a randomized-control design to test the impact of a victim-focused, forensic center multidisciplinary team (MDT) response compared to usual care (UC) on older adult victim and criminal justice outcomes.

Abstract

In the current study, cases of abuse, neglect, and/or financial exploitation involving a perpetrator in a position of trust were randomly assigned to MDT or UC. Outcomes were assessed via interviews with older adult victims, system-based advocates' surveys, and administrative data. According to system-based advocates, MDT had a better prognosis, higher across-agency coordination, and more types of engaged services relative to UC. Administrative data indicated low rates of case openings by adult protective services agencies and prosecution. Findings provide support for continued use of MDTs following older adult maltreatment and highlight difficulties engaging older adults, given the complex social and material circumstances often related to maltreatment. (publisher abstract modified)