Name two risk factors for elder abuse that healthcare providers should screen for.

• A. Social isolation and caregiver stress/burnout.
• B. High income and social engagement.
• C. Younger age of elder and frequent hospital visits.
• D. Access to community programs and strong family support.

Answer: (A)

Screening for elder abuse centers on identifying factors that make abuse more likely, especially around the older person’s social connections and the caregiver’s situation. The two most important risk factors to look for are social isolation and caregiver stress or burnout. When an older adult is socially isolated, there are fewer people who can notice and report mistreatment, and the elder may have less support to seek help or escape unsafe situations. Caregiver stress or burnout, on the other hand, can impair a caregiver’s ability to provide safe, attentive care and may lead to neglect or abusive responses, especially when resources and backup support are lacking.

In practice, ask about daily contact with family or friends, community involvement, and whether the elder feels safe at home. Also inquire about the caregiver’s level of stress, fatigue, access to respite or support services, and any signs of frustration or anger in caregiving. Protective factors—like strong social networks and sufficient caregiver support—lower risk, which is why the listed risk factors are the ones to screen for.

High income and social engagement, younger age, frequent hospital visits, access to community programs, and strong family support are generally protective and not risk factors for elder abuse.