This final research report describes a study that aimed to test the efficacy and effectiveness of an adapted financial exploitation prevention models for elders in rural Michigan who are experiencing cognitive decline, laying out the research design, methodology, and findings.
This report describes a research project that has policy and practice implications for preventing the financial exploitation of elders with cognitive decline, living in rural Michigan. The study had three specific aims: to develop and refine prevention programs to prevent the financial exploitation of rural elders affected by cognitive decline by targeting service professionals, family caregivers, and older adults with cognitive decline; to conduct randomized controlled trials (RCT) on each target group in rural areas of Michigan; and to test the efficacy of the developed prevention program on outcomes for service professionals, family caregivers, and older adults with cognitive decline. This final report provides an in-depth discussion of the three main research questions and research methodology, the study design, expected applicability of the research for policy and practice, and research findings. The report provides insights for family caregivers and older adults with cognitive decline, noting that the study generated preliminary evidence in support of the promising efficacy of an intervention program that combines the use of education, training, and case management services.