Preliminary findings on the use of “teaming” in elder abuse intervention: the RISE project

Abstract

Purpose

Our understanding of what intervention strategies are effective in improving the well-being of older adults experiencing elder abuse and self-neglect (EASN) is severely limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a method called “teaming,” a wraparound approach to provide enhanced social support to older adults experiencing EASN. A teaming intervention was administered by advocates in Maine, USA, as a component of a larger community-based EASN intervention, Repair harm, Inspire change, Support connection, Empower choice (RISE), implemented to complement adult protective services.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative interviews and a focus group were conducted with RISE advocates (n = 4). A descriptive phenomenological approach involving two independent assessors was used to code transcripts into themes and subthemes.

Findings

Three domains were identified: (1) team and support forming process, which describes the development of a supportive network based on each client’s needs; (2) techniques, which refers to the specific strategies advocates use to promote collectivity and shared responsibility around the client; and (3) implementation challenges, which discusses the difficulties advocates encounter when using teaming with people experiencing EASN.

Originality/value

This study represents the first in-depth exploration of teaming in the context of EASN intervention. Preliminary findings on the experiences of advocates suggest that teaming is a beneficial approach to support the individualized needs of each client, and to promote improved and sustainable case outcomes for clients.

Citation

MacNeil, A., Connolly, M.-T., Salvo, E., Kimball, P.F., Rogers, G., Lewis, S. and Burnes, D. (2023), "Preliminary findings on the use of “teaming” in elder abuse intervention: the RISE project", The Journal of Adult Protection, Vol. 25 No. 6, pp. 339-350. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-07-2023-0019