Who Commits Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is a growing and national epidemic that results in at least 500,000 seniors being abused every year.

Unfortunately, elder abuse can take place in any setting—including one’s own home, a nursing home residence, a hospital or senior center. Elder abuse is widespread and affects seniors of any race, gender, culture, or economic background.

The seniors who are most at risk to be abused tend to be isolated or disabled individuals with little to no familial support available to notice the signs of abuse.

Studies show that women are more likely to be abused than men, as well as people with dementia who may be less able to recognize or report abuse. “Older” seniors may also have a higher risk for abuse.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of elder abuse is that it most often occurs at the hands of the people closest to a vulnerable adult. That means, in many cases, abusers are caregivers who are friends or family. It may also be committed by unscrupulous professionals within nursing homes, hospitals, and other types of senior care centers. Both men and women are found to be guilty of committing elder abuse.

Some experts believe that adults who were abused as children are more likely to commit elder abuse.

The most important thing to remember about elder abuse is that it can be perpetrated by anyone. Therefore, it is absolutely critical that we watch for the warning signs that something is amiss and speak up when elder abuse is suspected.