Promising Practices of Nonprofit Organizations to Respond to the Challenges Faced in Countering the Mistreatment of Older Adults

Abstract

This article discusses promising practices used by employees and volunteers in nonprofit organizations (NPOs) in countering the mistreatment of older adults (CMOA). The findings presented here are the result of research on the material and financial actions of NPOs in CMOA, based on multiple case studies in five active Canadian NPOs in the framework of CMOA. The body of data comprises organizational documentation from NPOs, socio-demographic questionnaires and group or individual interviews with 64 participants (management volunteers, employees, field volunteers and accompanied older adults). Themed intra- and intercase analyses were carried out. Some key challenges faced by the active NPOs in CMOA include the continuity of follow-ups, difficulty in reaching older adults and obstacles to requesting help. Promising practices that have been implemented to contribute to the response to these challenges, such as collaboration practices, proactive prevention activities, canvassing and shelter services, are considered.