What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder Abuse is most often defined as: “Single or repeated acts, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.” (WHO, 2002)

Elder abuse takes many different forms; it’s as varied and individual as its victims themselves. What doesn’t change, regardless of the type, is that elder abuse happens far too often and it must be stopped NOW.

In this section you will find information about the various forms of elder abuse, ways to recognize it, the legal definitions, and answers to frequently asked questions.