Elder Abuse Is a Growing National Social Concern

Written by Adam Peck Category: Elder Law January 26th, 2013 2 min read

Elder Abuse is a growing social concern, but it’s not new. Too many older adults have suffered abuse and neglect at the hands of family members and caregivers for too many years.

What is new is that there is a growing awareness and concern about elder abuse, putting a new face to this type of family violence.

Victims of elder abuse know and trust their abuser. Most victims of elder abuse depend on the people who hurt them, sometimes for food, shelter, personal care or companionship.

Too often the abuse and neglect of older adults is not readily identified by service providers and community members.

Some of the signs and symptoms of elder abuse can include depression, fear, anxiety or passivity, unexplained physical injuries, dehydration or lack of food, poor hygiene, urine sores or bed sores, over-sedation.

Many older adults may believe that abuse by a relative is a “family problem” and are ashamed to disclose that a family member is abusive. Noone is immune to elder abuse.

The majority of abused older adults are in their 60s and 70s. Women are typically more vulnerable to abuse and experience more forms of abuse.

Most victims of elder abuse are mentally competent and able to make decisions for themselves. However, loneliness and isolation make some seniors more susceptible to scams.

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Written by Adam Peck

Expertise: Personal Injury

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.