By Craig Kirscht
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10 Aug, 2023
Elder abuse is a silent problem that robs seniors of their dignity and security, and, in some cases, costs them their lives. Up to five million older Americans are abused every year, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion. Elder abuse includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. Perpetrators include children, other family members, spouses, as well as staff at nursing homes, assisted living, and other facilities. Approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as five million elders who are abused each year. One study estimated that only one in twenty-four cases of abuse are reported to authorities. What makes an older adult vulnerable to abuse? Social isolation and mental impairment (such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease) are two factors. Recent studies show that half of those with dementia experienced abuse or neglect. Interpersonal violence also occurs at disproportionately higher rates among adults with disabilities. What are the warning signs of elder abuse? Physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment: Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, burns. Emotional abuse: Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities; a sudden change in alertness or unusual depression; strained or tense relationships; frequent arguments between the caregiver and older adult. Financial abuse: Sudden changes in financial situations or unexplained withdrawals. Neglect: Bedsores, unattended medical needs, poor hygiene, unusual weight loss. Verbal or emotional abuse: Belittling, threats, or other uses of power and control by individuals. What are the effects of elder abuse? Elders who have been abused have a 300% higher risk of death when compared to those who have not been mistreated.4 While likely under-reported, estimates of elder financial abuse and fraud costs to older Americans range from $2.6 billion to $36.5 billion annually.5,6 Yet, financial exploitation is self-reported at rates higher than emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or neglect. Are there criminal penalties for the abusers? Most states have penalties for those who victimize older adults. Increasingly, across the country, law enforcement officers and prosecutors are trained on elder abuse and ways to use criminal and civil laws to bring abusers to justice. Review state-specific elder justice laws on the Elder Abuse Guide for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) website. How does a person make an elder abuse report? If you, or an older adult you know, are in immediate, life-threatening danger, call 911. Anyone who suspects that an older adult is being mistreated should contact the local Adult Protective Services office, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, or police. The National Center on Elder Abuse describes various scenarios and ways to get help at their website, and more information is available from the Eldercare Locator online at https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx or by calling 1-800-677-1116 .