NCJ Number
80676
Date Published
1978
Length
81 pages
Annotation
The processes and operations of service delivery systems aimed at resolution of elderly consumers' problems are examined, and the desirable elements of a comprehensive service delivery effort in this area are described.
Abstract
This report is one of a series summarizing the findings of a study on consumer fraud and the elderly. The study involved community surveys in Genesee County, Mich., and King County, Wash., along with field studies in consumer protection offices in the major city in each of the counties. In addition, a national survey of consumer education programs for the elderly. Agencies delivering consumer protection services to the elderly are discussed, with attention to differences in structure, political and professional goals, and the remedies available to them. Next, forms of victimization of the elderly consumer are identified. Particularly noted are some of the differences between what is legally recognized as victimization and what may be individually and privately perceived as victimization. Some of the correlates of victimization of the elderly consumer are also considered, such as the relationships between victimization and consumer knowledge of good purchase practices, educational level, and community involvement. Also examined is the nature of offenses for which services need to be delivered to victims. The 'organizational environment' in which elderly consumers are victimized and in which service delivery occurs is analyzed. The report concludes that the crucial step to aid the aged victim is improvement of the process of linking victims and services. Finally, desirable options for service delivery are outlined. Thirty footnotes are listed. (Author summary modified)