About Elder Mediation

The elder mediation process is different to the normal family/commercial mediation in that the mediator has to consider how to adapt the process to take into account the best interests of the vulnerable adult and to make sure that their views, on what could be a significant change for them, are taken into account.

This may mean that the mediator would like to meet with the vulnerable adult before the mediation takes place. It may be that the mediation has to be configured around the vulnerable adult and has to be conducted at their pace. For example:

 

• should sessions with the vulnerable adult be limited to say half an hour because that reflects a period over which they can concentrate; 

• is the vulnerable adult better at certain times of the day;

• would the vulnerable adult be more at ease if the questions were asked of him/her in their own home rather than at the solicitor’s office;

• would Skype or a telephone conference facility work?