Definition

• Elder abuse is the harm or neglect of an older person. Dependent adult abuse involves neglecting or harming a person who is over the age of 18 but unable to adequately care for himself for mental or physical reasons.
  
  

Types

• Elder and dependent adult abuse includes physical violence, neglect, sexual violence, emotional harm and the abuse of the elder or dependent adult's property or money.
  
  

Where It Occurs

• Abuse occurs in nursing homes, hospitals and in family settings, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health.
  
  

Signs

• The Department of Health and Human Services' Administration on Aging lists several warning signs of abuse, including the presence of bruises and other physical injuries, sudden financial changes, withdrawal from regular activities, depression and other changes in behavior.
  
  

Getting Help

• In cases in which danger is not imminent, the Administration on Aging recommends contacting Adult Protective Services in the state where the elder or dependent adult lives. For abuse in nursing homes, care facilities or home health-care providers, contact your state's long-term care ombudsman.