Public education and awareness programs have changed social attitudes about domestic violence and sexual abuse. The identification and reporting of abuse, intervention, support groups, treatment and other programs that help victims of abuse have risen dramatically over the last twenty years. Unfortunately, the abuse suffered by the elderly can not claim the same progress. 

It is estimated that between one and two million Americans over the age of sixty-five are subjected to physical, emotional, financial or sexual abuse each year. Accurate statistics are not readily available because there is no uniform reporting system; therefore, there are no official national statistics. Researchers estimate only one in fourteen abuse cases are reported.

Signs of Elder Abuse

Signs of elder abuse can be difficult to detect due to medication, or diseases and illness the elderly person may have. Certain signs and symptoms can appear to be part of a disease process or a side effect of medication when in fact, it may be elder abuse. Knowing the signs of elder abuse will increase awareness and intervention of abuse to our elderly.