Elder Abuse

Elder abuse takes various forms. Here, we provide definitions of elder abuse and resources for older adults and their families and caregivers.

•  Physical and Sexual Abuse 

•  Emotional or Psychological Abuse

•  Neglect, Self-Neglect, and Abandonment

•  Financial or Material Exploitation

Elder abuse is defined by varying state laws. Domestic elder abuse refers to victimization from someone whom an older adult knows like a spouse, child, neighbor, or caregiver. Institutional abuse refers to abusers who work at hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Self-neglect and self-abuse can also fall within the definitions of elder abuse.

What are the signs of elder abuse?

One sign does not necessarily indicate abuse, some signs that there could be a problem are:

• Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, burns, and open wounds might be a sign of physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment;
• Unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, a sudden change in alertness, and unusual depression may be indicators of emotional abuse.
• Bruises around the breasts or genital area can occur from sexual abuse.
• Sudden changes in financial situations may be the result of exploitation.
• Bedsores, poor hygiene, and unusual weight loss are indicators of possible neglect.
• Behavior such as belittling, threats, and other uses of power and control by spouses are indicators of verbal or emotional abuse.
• Strained or tense relationships, frequent arguments between the caregiver and elderly person are also signs.

There are many other warning signs that often go unnoticed by family members. More warning signs are provided by clicking on the categories of elder abuse found above. The worst thing to do is ignore a suspicion. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Information provided from NCEA . 

Elder Abuse Statistics

Measuring the incidences and prevalence of elder abuse is difficult because of multiple definitions and the lack of comprehensive national data.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse :

•  It is estimated that for every one report of elder abuse, five go unreported (1998);

•  One to two million adults aged 65 and over have been injured, exploited, or mistreated by someone they depended on for care or protection(2003).

Prevention for the Individual:
Know Your Rights

• You have the right to decide your own affairs to the best of your ability.

• If you are going to have a Power of Attorney, make sure you choose the right person.  If something should happen, your Power of Attorney has full say in your affairs.

• You have the right to confidentiality.  If you speak to an attorney, you do not have to tell your family what was said.  You do not have to let others know what is included in a will.

• If you are being abused, you have the right to seek out the authorities.

• You have the right to be respected and to not be taken advantage of.

• You have the right to take care of your own affairs for as long as you are able.

Physical and Sexual Abuse 

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Neglect, Self Neglect and Abandonment

Financial or Material Exploitation

 *Information provided by the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA). The NCEA is funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging, AoA Grant No. 90-AP-2144."

Resource Center

Self-Neglect

Intergenerational Issues Relating to Family Violence

Elder Shelters: U.S., Canada, and Japan

Preventing Elder Abuse by Family Caregivers

American Psychologists' Association Brochure on Elder Abuse

Elder Abuse Foundation

ELDERCARE LOCATOR - 1 (800) 677-1116.

website

Tennessee Department of Human Services - Adult Protective Services  1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366)

Senior Citizens Law project
Gives legal advice and representation to economically and socially needy people 60 years of age or older.
Contact: Pam Wright (731) 426-1316

Report Elder Abuse

A Senior's Guide to Personal Safety

This book, written by two cops, is designed to give seniors and their families information on the types of violent crime and scams occurring in today's world. We teach seniors how to protect themselves from Crimes of Economic Gain, Burglary, Theft, Robbery, Carjacking, Sexual Assault, Elder Abuse and much more.

• You have the right to decide your own affairs to the best of your ability.
• If you are going to have a Power of Attorney, make sure you choose the right person.  If something should happen, your Power of Attorney has full say in your affairs.
• You have the right to confidentiality.  If you speak to an attorney, you do not have to tell your family what was said.  You do not have to let others know what is included in a will.
• If you are being abused, you have the right to seek out the authorities.
• You have the right to be respected and to not be taken advantage of.
• You have the right to take care of your own affairs for as long as you are able.