We have chosen three different categories of disability. The first is a physical disability of an amputated leg; the second is a cognitive disability of dementia and the third is a mental illness of schizophrenia. Now look at the second page of the handout which is a list of possible risk factors then look in the second column on the first page and note that we have chosen some risk factors for each of the types of a disability. In reviewing each example note that the options for each category is not finite and many more options are available than are presented.

So, for the person with an amputated leg they have the following risk factors: Decreased mobility, unable to walk, needs wheelchair to get around. Note that we used some of the risk factors from the list and added some. The third column asks for the types of abuse they are at risk for and in this case we have noted neglect, physical abuse and self-neglect as likely types of abuse the person could be at risk for. The third column now asks what agency referrals you could arrange for this person to further reduce their risk of being abused. In this case we have suggested these referrals: Physical therapy, equipment like a wheelchair, transfer board or shower chair, Challenge Alaska for activity, and a Medicaid Choice Waiver evaluation. 

The second example is a person with the cognitive disability of dementia. The risk factors are: Confusion, wandering, unable to communicate needs. The types of abuse they may be at risk for are: physical abuse, emotional or verbal abuse, exploitation, neglect, self-neglect. Often when you find one type of abuse occurring you will see other types of abuse as in this case it would be highly likely that all types of abuse are possible. The safety strategies that could be used in this case are:  clear pathways for safe wandering, provide visual and verbal cues; caregiver receives training on dementia care. The agency referrals could include the following:  Alzheimer’s Resource Agency, respite care, Adult Day Services.

The third example is of mental illness and the diagnosis is schizophrenia. The risk factors are: hearing voices, delusional, combative. The types of abuse at risk for are: physical, emotional abuse. The safety strategies could include medication management, mental health services, social supports, supported housing. The agencies in Anchorage to refer to could include Anchorage Community Mental Health or Southcentral Foundation. 

Now it is your turn to provide some examples. For this activity providing “correct answers” would require a large data base. Use your own best judgment as to what would be the correct answer.

There are directions on the next page explaining how to complete this activity.