Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test – HSEAST
A screening instrument designed to identify individuals at risk for elder abuse and neglect.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test – HSEAST was developed by Mary Ann Hwalek, Carolyn Stahl, Melanie C. Sengstock (1991). It is designed to measure Elder Abuse and Neglect Risk. The scale is intended for use with Older adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 15 items organized into 3 factors/subscales: Violation of Personal Rights or Direct Abuse, Characteristics of Vulnerability, Potentially Abusive Situations.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Violation of Personal Rights or Direct Abuse | 4,9,10,11,15 | 5 |
| Characteristics of Vulnerability | 1,3,6 | 3 |
| Potentially Abusive Situations | 2,5,7,8,12,13,14 | 7 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a dichotomous Yes/No format.
The scale includes 4 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 15. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Risk: 0 – 2
- High Risk (Warrants further clinical investigation): 3 – 15
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.