Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. The abuse often occurs at the hands of a caregiver or a person the elder trusts.
Elder abuse includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Approximately one in 10 Americans age 60+ have experienced one form of elder abuse. All 50 states have some form of elder abuse prevention laws. These laws vary by state.
Signs of emotional and psychological abuse in elders include:
- Appearing depressed, withdrawn, or scared.
- Avoiding eye contact.
- Different eating or sleeping patterns.
- Isolation from friends and family.
- Low self-esteem.
- Mood swings.
- Sudden changes in behavior/personality.
How common is elder abuse?
Research indicates that 1 in 10 older people living in the community experience some form of abuse in the United States.
The Florida DCF Division of Adult Protective Services screens and investigates all reports of elder abuse (1-800-96-ABUSE or 1-800-962-2873).
