Description

The Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test (H-SEAST) is an assessment tool designed to identify elder abuse. The test consists of questions aimed at examining conditions and signs that may indicate abuse or neglect of elderly individuals. It can be used by healthcare professionals, social workers, and other specialists to assess risks and intervene in cases of abuse.

Data Analysis and Use

Analyzing data from the H-SEAST involves evaluating responses to identify indications of elder abuse or neglect. The analysis may include:

Descriptive Statistics: For describing the basic characteristics of the data, such as the distribution of responses and frequencies.

Overall Assessment: Analyzing total scores to understand the level of risk associated with abuse or neglect.

Correlational Analysis: To identify relationships between different indicators of abuse and other variables, such as socio-economic status or the health of the elderly person.

Diagnostic Evaluation: Examining results in conjunction with other diagnostic information to confirm or rule out signs of abuse.

Objective

The main objective of the H-SEAST is to detect early signs and indicators of elder abuse or neglect so that professionals can intervene appropriately and protect at-risk individuals. The use of the test helps in the preventive identification of issues and in developing intervention strategies to safeguard the elderly.

Calibration

The calibration of the H-SEAST involves the process of developing and validating the questions to ensure the accuracy and validity of the assessment. Calibration includes:

Tool Validation: Through pilot studies and research to assess the reliability and validity of the questions.

Standard Setting: Establishing benchmarks for categorizing results and identifying risks.

Ongoing Revision: Updating the tool based on new data and research to maintain its effectiveness.

Bibliography

For studying and applying the H-SEAST, the following sources are useful:

Hwalek, M. A., & Sengstock, M. C. (1986). The Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test: A Screening Tool for Elder Abuse. Journal of Applied Gerontology, 5(3), 244-262.

Hwalek, M. A., & Sengstock, M. C. (1991). Development and Validation of the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test. Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 3(2), 27-41.

Pillemer, K., & Finkelhor, D. (1988). The Prevalence of Elder Abuse: A Critical Review. Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 1(3), 235-245.