Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is also known as elder mistreatment, abuse in later life, abuse of older men, and abuse of older women. This is characterized by an act or repeated acts of harm and/or neglect towards an older individual. Aside from experiencing feelings of abandonment and loss of dignity, the victims may also suffer from physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, emotional, or financial abuse. The common signs include poor physical appearance, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, dehydration, refusal to talk, and inability to maintain hygiene. For this reason states have instituted elder abuse professionals and procedures to protect this vulnerable segment of society.