Elder Abuse
Context
Elder abuse is widely underreported: many victims do not report because of fear, shame, cognitive impairment, or dependence on the abuser. Every state has an Adult Protective Services (APS) program that investigates reports involving vulnerable adults, and most states designate certain professionals as mandatory reporters. Reporting suspected abuse to APS or law enforcement does not require proof — reasonable suspicion is enough for the agency to look into it.
The Main Types
- Physical abuse — hitting, pushing, improper restraint, or misuse of medication.
- Emotional abuse — threats, insults, isolation, or intimidation.
- Sexual abuse — any non-consensual sexual contact.
- Financial exploitation — stealing money or property, coercing signatures, or misusing a position of trust.
- Neglect — failing to provide food, shelter, hygiene, medical care, or supervision.
Warning Signs
Unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from activities, missing money or belongings, unpaid bills despite adequate income, and a caregiver who refuses to leave the older adult alone with visitors.
Explore Elder Abuse Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect elder abuse?
Is elder abuse a crime?
How can someone find legal help for an elderly parent?
Sources & Further Reading
These are official or established sources you can use to verify the information above. External links open in a new tab.
U.S. Administration for Community Living
National Center on Elder Abuse
Federal resource for elder abuse research, statistics, and state reporting information.
External links do not imply endorsement.
National Center on Elder Abuse
Get Help — Elder Abuse
How to get help and report elder abuse.
External links do not imply endorsement.
About this page
- Updated
Sources
- National Center on Elder Abuse — U.S. Administration for Community Living
- Get Help — Elder Abuse — National Center on Elder Abuse
“Accessed” means the date the source was consulted; it is not the publication date of this page.
Published: September 26, 2026
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