Nov. 20 CAC workshop to explore elder abuse

Professionals who work with older adults – and students who plan to — can learn how to combat elder abuse at an upcoming workshop presented by the University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community.

“Helping Professionals Prevent Elder Abuse & Neglect” is scheduled 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 20 at the Wheeler Arts Community, 1035 Sanders St. in Fountain Square. The cost is $20, or $10 for UIndy students, which includes continental breakfast and lunch.

Elder abuse and neglect is an increasing concern as the population ages. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, 2.1 million adults age 65 and older are victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation each year.

At the workshop, part of CAC’s “Helping Professionals” series, participants will learn how to recognize and prevent multiple forms of elder abuse, including physical, verbal, emotional, sexual and financial abuse, as well as neglect and self-neglect.

The discussion will cover principles of staff empowerment, culture change and person-centered care. The material is geared toward anyone who works directly with older adults or is studying for a career in aging services, including long-term care administrators and staff, assisted-living and home health agency employees, adult day and adult foster care professionals, therapists, social workers, spiritual leaders, elder law professionals and students.

The instructors will be Professor Karen Iseminger of the UIndy School of Nursing, who has completed the Indiana State Department of Health’s “train-the-trainer” program for elder abuse prevention and previously served as director of ethics integration for St. Vincent Health; and Carol Steiner Applegate, a certified family mediator, experienced elder law attorney and registered nurse.

For workshop registration and more information, click here.