| Abstract: | Ten researchers from a wide variety of disciplines met to formulate an elder abuse national research agenda. Their specific purpose was to identify, organize, and prioritize the most important research questions in the field of elder abuse and neglect that remain to be answered reliably. Despite extensive preparation and experience, the researchers disagreed over such basic issues as how abuse should be defined and the types of maltreatment to consider. Inconsistencies in resolving these issues are a root cause of many flaws in current research studies. Resolutions are presented that might serve as a guide to others in improving research designs. Recommendations for improving research methodology are also included. |
