Recovered Archive / Safety
Elder abuse is harm done to an older adult, most often by someone they know and trust. It is not only physical. Financial exploitation, emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment are all forms of elder abuse, and they frequently overlap.
Most elder abuse is perpetrated by family members, caregivers, or people in positions of trust. The abuse is often hidden, gradual, and difficult for the elder to report, especially if the abuser is their primary source of care.
Elder abuse affects adults 60 and older (or 65+ depending on state law). It takes several forms: physical abuse (hitting, pushing, restraining), emotional abuse (threats, isolation, humiliation), sexual abuse, financial exploitation (stealing money or property, forcing changes to wills, misusing power of attorney), neglect (withholding food, medication, hygiene, or medical care), and abandonment. Most cases involve someone the elder knows, a family member, a paid caregiver, or a person with legal or financial authority over them.
Elder abuse is underreported. Many elders are afraid, dependent on the abuser, or unable to report. If you suspect abuse, even if you are not certain, reporting to APS is the right move. They will investigate and determine whether intervention is needed.
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