Author: Wiglesworth A, Mosqueda L, Burnight K, Younglove T and Jeske D
Journal: The Gerontologist, 2006
Volume/pages: Vol 46(2), pp277-283

About the study
This American study used a survey approach to evaluate the impact of an Elder Abuse Forensic Center (EAFC) on the effectiveness and efficiency of an existing collaboration of agencies working together to address cases of elder abuse. The collaboration included social workers, mental health workers and a domestic violence expert. The project aimed to improve practice, encourage sharing of expertise, and provide a shared location for the various teams to work together and hold case meetings.

Findings
Staff in the collaboration felt that on the whole the centre had helped to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness. Levels of satisfaction were good although they varied between groups, with the Vulnerable Adult Specialist Team (VAST) and the District Attorney reporting significantly higher levels of satisfaction than other groups. Adult Protective Services workers highly valued the availability of VAST to help determine victims’ capacity to make decisions.

Key messages

• Regular meetings and coordinated planning within multidisciplinary teams can help to ensure a quick response and prevent time-wasting and duplication of activities