Key Definitions
What is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse is harm or serious risk of harm to an elder individual as a result of carelessness, negligence or bad intentions, done by a caregiver or another person. Abuse may be defined in the following ways:
Physical Abuse – physical pain or injury, inflicted on an elderly individual, or depriving him or her of a basic need.
Neglect – failure or refusal to provide adequate food, shelter, health care and/or protection for a vulnerable elder.
Psychological and Verbal Abuse – causing emotional pain or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts.
Elder Sexual Abuse – forced or non-consensual sexual activity with an elderly individual.
Exploitation – misuse, hiding or illegally taking money, property or other assets.
Abandonment – when the person responsible for an elderly person deserts the person (legally or through informal arrangement) they have been caring for.
Other Sources of Information
Eldercare Locator 1-800-677-1116 www.eldercare.gov
National Center on Elder Abuse 202-898-2586 www.elderabusecenter.org
Both of the above resources can be reached in one click from our Relevant Resources Table.