October 30, 2003 | Read Time: 1 minute
A Golden Opportunity: Managing the Risks of Service to Seniors
Organizations that serve elderly people need to protect their clients from crime and health problems, and to protect themselves from financial and legal consequences should accidents occur, according to this guide produced by the Nonprofit Risk Management Center, in Washington, and the Housing Authority Insurance Group, in Cheshire, Conn.
The book reviews numerous court cases to illustrate the circumstances under which charities can be held liable for failing to take reasonable steps to care for the health and safety of their elderly clients.
Because staff members and volunteers often visit older people regularly, they are the ones most likely to see signs that their clients could be victims of fraud or abuse, or are experiencing health problems, write the authors. The book lists many such signs, including symptoms of stroke, dementia, and bad reactions to medication. The guide provides an overview of the obligations of employees and volunteers when they detect these signs, such as notifying experts or government agencies.
To reduce its risk, an organization should properly screen, train, and supervise volunteers and employees, the authors write. Other chapters describe how to maintain the confidentiality of clients, establish safe-transportation policies, and provide services for older people living in public housing.
Publisher: Nonprofit Risk Management Center, 1001 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 410, Washington, D.C. 20036; (202) 785-3891; fax (202) 296-0349; info@nonprofitrisk.org; http://www.nonprofitrisk.org; 98 pages; $20; I.S.B.N. 1-893210-12-X.
