From Need to Policy: Community Supported Development and Implementation of the South Carolina Vulnerable Adult Guardian Ad Litem (SC VAGAL) Program

Abstract

Adult guardian ad litem programs are a necessary public service to protect adults from abuse and neglect. This article describes the development and implementation of an adult guardian ad litem program. We discuss the program’s impetus, pilot testing, evaluation, and implementation of the program. Our experience highlights the vital role of diverse inter-sectoral stakeholders. Furthermore, the development process highlights the need for flexibility in program development, tension negotiation among stakeholders, and engagement of aging stakeholders in nontraditional arenas.

Keywords

abuse and neglect home- and community-based care and services policy

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