Outcomes of Network Systems for Prevention against Elder Abuse in Municipalities

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate outcomes of network systems for prevention against elder abuse by comparing the municipalities which have developed such network systems with those which have not. A self-administered questionnaire survey by mail was performed on 542 municipalities with a population over 30,000. Analyses showed that, among municipalities which have developed the network systems, following items were being carried out more frequently: education and training development of the system in a public office, utilizing forms for information management, and collaboration with care plan centers, nursing homes, and other professionals (police, layer and psychiatrist). Regarding the source of information about elder abuse, three things became clear. First. more information was obtained from welfare commissioners in municipalities which have developed early detection and community support networks. Second, more information was obtained from care managers, abusers themselves, and welfare commissioners in municipalities which have developed a network including health care and welfare services professionals. And third, more information was obtained from the municipal staff in municipalities which have developed a support network comprising other professionals. As only about half of municipalities in Japan have developed such network systems further development should be promoted.