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Defining the Target Audience
Many groups stand to benefit from information about elder abuse. The message you convey should reflect the information needs and circumstances of each group. Examples include:
Target Group: Abused and Vulnerable Elders
Messages:
- You are not alone.
- Help is available.
- Abuse is not your fault.
- Don’t become a victim. Here’s how.
- Common scams and how to avoid them.
Target Group: Abusers and “Would-Be” Abusers
Messages:
- Abuse is a crime.
- Caregivers, are you at the end of your rope? Afraid you might abuse? Here’s what you can do.
Target Group: Policy Makers
Messages:
- Elder abuse affects the communities you serve. Here’s how.
- Resources and policy can provide needed protection.
- Here’s what’s needed to prevent abuse in our community.
Target Group: Members of the Community
Messages:
- Abuse is a community problem, and the public needs to be involved in its prevention.
- Here’s what to do if someone you know is being abused.
- Here’s what will happen when you report.
- You can help by contacting legislators, becoming a long term care ombudsman volunteer, checking on an elder you’re concerned about, or arranging for a presentation to a group you belong to.
Target Group: Family Members
Messages:
- Here’s what to do if a loved one is abused.
- You can reduce the risk of abuse by assisting an elder:
- Plan for the future
- Interview personal care attendants
- Arrange for services or care
Target Group: Professionals
Messages:
- It’s your duty to report. Here’s how.
- Here’s what will happen when you report.
- Collaboration and coordination are needed to effectively serve elders in your community.
- Learn more. Information is available.
- Get involved by joining a multidisciplinary team or community coalition, reading up on the problem, or attending a training event.
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