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Elder Abuse
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Social Family Issues

Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is the mistreatment of an older person, often by a caregiver, which requires external intervention to stop.

Overview

Many older people are victims of elder abuse. It is the mistreatment of an older person, usually by a caregiver. It can happen within the family, or it can occur in assisted living facilities or nursing homes.

Types of Mistreatment

The mistreatment may include:

  • Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
  • Neglect or abandonment
  • Financial abuse, such as the stealing of money or belongings

Signs and Symptoms

Possible signs of elder abuse include:

  • Unexplained bruises, burns, and injuries
  • Bed sores and poor hygiene
  • The person becoming withdrawn, agitated, or depressed
  • A sudden change in the person's financial situation

Management

Elder abuse will not stop on its own; someone else needs to step in and help. If you think that an older person is in urgent danger, call 911. Otherwise, contact adult protective services.

Frequently Asked Questions

For emotional abuse, look for signs like the older person becoming withdrawn, fearful, or unusually anxious around a specific individual, or expressing feelings of worthlessness. For financial abuse, watch for unexplained changes in their financial situation, such as unpaid bills despite adequate income, sudden changes in wills or property deeds, missing money or valuables, or new "friends" taking an unusual interest in their finances.
If you suspect elder abuse, even without definitive proof, it's crucial to report your concerns. Adult Protective Services (APS) or similar agencies are trained to investigate these situations discreetly and assess the safety of the older person. Your report can be confidential, and they can determine if intervention is needed, even if the individual is reluctant to admit abuse due to fear or shame.
Caregiving can be incredibly demanding. To prevent burnout and potential mistreatment, it's vital to seek support. Look for caregiver support groups, utilize respite care services to get breaks, practice stress-reduction techniques, and don't hesitate to ask family or friends for help. Recognizing your limits and seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Once a report is made, Adult Protective Services (APS) will typically conduct an investigation to assess the situation. This may involve interviewing the older person, the suspected abuser, and other relevant individuals. If abuse is confirmed, APS will work to ensure the older person's safety and connect them with necessary resources, which could include medical care, legal assistance, counseling, or alternative living arrangements.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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