Service providers' use of harm reduction approaches in working with older adults experiencing abuse: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Although abuse experienced by older adults is common and expected to increase, disclosure, reporting and interventions to prevent or mitigate abuse remain sub-optimal. Incorporating principles of harm reduction into service provision has been advocated as a strategy that may improve outcomes for this population. This paper explores whether and how these principles of harm reduction were employed by professionals who provide services to older adults experiencing abuse.

Methods

Thematic analysis of qualitative interviews with 23 professionals providing services to older adults experiencing abuse across three Western provinces of Canada was conducted. Key principles of harm reduction (humanism, incrementalism, individualism, pragmatism, autonomy, and accountability w

SUBMITTER: Goodridge D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8242276 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature