What is elder abuse and neglect?

Elder abuse is the mistreatment of an older person. It can be physical abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect. The person who does it may be a caregiver, a family member, a spouse, or a friend.

Elder abuse can include:

• Acts of violence. Examples are:
  • Hitting, kicking, or beating.
  • Pushing, choking, or burning.
  • Physical restraints.
• Forced sexual contact or sexual contact without consent. This includes:
  • Unwanted touching.
  • All types of sexual assault.
• Emotional or psychological abuse. This includes:
  • Name-calling.
  • Threats, intimidation, or humiliation.
• Neglect. Examples are:
  • Not providing food, clothing, or personal shelter.
  • Not paying nursing home or assisted-living facility costs if you are legally responsible to do so.
• Abandonment. This includes leaving an older person without care when you are physically or legally responsible to provide care.
• Illegal or improper use of an older person's funds, property, or assets. Examples are:
  • Forging an older person's signature.
  • Stealing money or possessions.

Along with the person's reports of abuse, here are signs to look for. Signs depend on the type of abuse. If the person is seriously injured, get treatment right away.

Signs of violence may include:

• Bruises, black eyes, or cuts.
• Broken bones.
• Sprains, dislocations, or internal injuries.
• Broken eyeglasses or dentures.
• Signs of being restrained.

Signs of possible sexual abuse include:

• Bruises around the breasts or genital area.
• Unexplained vaginal or anal bleeding.
• Underclothes that are torn or stained.

Emotional or psychological abuse is possible if the older person:

• Seems upset or agitated.
• Acts withdrawn or doesn't talk or respond.

Signs of neglect may include:

• Dehydration.
• Malnutrition.
• Untreated health problems.
• Pressure ulcers.
• Poor personal hygiene.

Signs of abandonment include leaving an older person at a shopping center, a park, or another public location.

Signs of financial abuse include:

• Sudden changes in a bank account or banking practice.
• Names added to an older person's bank card.