Many elderly adults are abused in their own homes, in relatives’ homes, and even in facilities responsible for their care. If you suspect that an elderly per- son is at risk from a neglectful or over- whelmed caregiver, or being preyed upon financially, it’s important to speak up. Learn about the warning signs of elder abuse, what the risk factors are, and how you can


WHAT IS ELDER ABUSE?


prevent and report the problem. elder abuse is a term referring to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that caus- es harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult.


As elders become more physically frail, they’re less able to stand up to bullying and or fight back if attacked. They may not see or hear as well or think as clearly as they used to, leaving openings for unscrupulous people to take advantage of them. Mental or physical ailments may make them more trying companions for the people who live with them.


Many seniors around the world are being abused: harmed in some substantial way often by people who are directly responsible for their care.


In the U.S. alone, more than half a million reports of abuse against elderly Americans reach authorities every year, and millions more cases go unreported.


Elder abuse tends to take place where the senior lives: most often in the home where abusers are often adult children, other family members such as grandchildren, or spouses/ partners of elders. Elder abuse can also oc- cur in institutional settings, especially long- term care facilities.


Abuse of elders takes many different forms, some involving intimidation or threats against the elderly, some involving neglect, and others involving financial chicanery. The most common are defined below.


Physical elder abuse is non-accidental use of force against an elderly person that results in physical pain, injury, or impairment. Such abuse includes not only physical assaults such as hitting or shoving but the inappropri- ate use of drugs, restraints, or confinement.


In emotional or psychological abuse, people speak to or treat elderly persons in ways that cause emotional pain or distress.


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