Elder abuse and neglect affect a reported 3 percent to 4 percent of the older population in the United States -- and many more cases go unreported. By learning how to identify and evaluate suspected cases -- and by understanding how to treat elders who have experienced abuse and neglect -- mental health professionals can make a crucial contribution to the well-being of older adults. Elder abuse expert Bryan Kemp outlines the basics that you need to respond effectively. Read More >>

Social workers play a key role in the systems mandated by every state to address situations involving physical abuse, neglect or exploitation of an elder, as well as instances of self-neglect by older adults themselves. When assessing such cases, social workers in adult protective services must be aware of a number of significant considerations, both legal and clinical. Read More >>

A national expert on aging-related public policy, Robert Blancato is president of Matz, Blancato and Associates in Washington, D.C., and a member of the ASA Board of Directors. In response to five questions from Dimensions, he offers an update on the Elder Justice Act, a proposed federal law that includes provisions to help mental health professionals respond effectively to abuse, neglect and exploitation of older adults. Read More >>

Elder Abuse and Mistreatment: Policy, Practice and Research brings together contributors from a variety of professionals backgrounds to give the reader a broad overview of significant areas in elder abuse, with sections devoted to policy, practice and research. “Each offers insights for mental health professional who work with older adults, although most such professionals will probably find the section on practice particularly worthwhile,” notes reviewer Tobi Abramson. Read More >>

Wrapping up her final column, outgoing MHAN Leadership Council chair Anita Rosen brings us up to date on changes for the network and the American Society on Aging: A new president and CEO takes the helm at ASA; a new chair steps up to guide the MHAN Leadership Council; and MHAN’s newsletter takes a dynamic new form. All these developments add up to one thing: It’s a time of transition, and MHAN is looking to the future. Read More >>