What is considered the number one strategy for primary prevention of ANE?

The number one strategy for primary prevention of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation (ANE) is education and self-protection training. This approach empowers individuals, particularly those with disabilities, by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize abusive situations and to protect themselves. Education can involve teaching clients about their rights, how to communicate their needs effectively, and ways to seek help if they feel threatened or unsafe.

When clients are informed and aware, they become active participants in their own safety, which significantly reduces their vulnerability to abuse. Moreover, self-protection training equips them with practical skills, helping them to assess situations and respond appropriately in potentially dangerous scenarios. Overall, fostering a culture of awareness and self-advocacy through education serves as a robust preventive measure against all forms of ANE.