ATHENS, Ohio -- The spring series of Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine's Geriatric Education Brown Bag seminars continues May 20, as Barbara Pfeiffer, R.N., M.P.H, presents "It Shouldn't Hurt to Grow Old: Elder Abuse and Neglect." The presentation will be at O'Bleness Memorial Hospital from noon to 1 p.m. in room B-9.

One to two million older Americans are mistreated annually. Elderly abuse occurs in all settings, including at private homes and in nursing homes. Pfeiffer will talk about the important role health-care providers play in recognizing elder abuse and neglect.

"Elder mistreatment and neglect often goes unrecognized and thus untreated," Pfeiffer said. "It is important for health professionals to recognize caregiver stress that may lead to abusive behavior."

"The home care of a frail older adult is more taxing than most people think. One or two adults may try to carry on the same functions as performed by the entire staff of a nursing facility. Prevention planning requires health professionals to help families make alternative plans in advance to prevent neglect and abuse."

Health-care professionals are invited to attend the seminar. Brown bags are welcome. For more information, call the Geriatric Education Center at (740) 593-2258. Each lecture in this series of geriatric medicine/gerontology seminars is held on the first and third Mondays of each month at O'Bleness Memorial Hospital.

This seminar is the fourth of the spring series. The series continues on June 3, with Sarah McGrew presenting "OA Update: Screening and Self-Management."