Adult Protective Services/Elder Abuse

1. Physical Abuse

The intentional use of force causing injury, pain, or impairment. This includes hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, burning, cutting, or physically restraining an elder.

2. Sexual Abuse

Any non-consensual sexual contact, including inappropriate touching, forced sexual acts, or sexual contact with someone unable to give consent.

3. Emotional/Psychological Abuse

Verbal or non-verbal behaviors that inflict mental pain, fear, or distress, such as humiliation, threats, intimidation, or social isolation.

The illegal or improper use of an elder’s funds, property, or assets. Examples include:

• Taking money or property without permission
• Forging signatures
• Coercing or deceiving someone into signing legal documents
• Unauthorized use of credit cards or bank accounts
• Confidence scams, telemarketing fraud, or deceptive investments
• Making false promises of care in exchange for money or property

Warning Signs of Financial Exploitation:

• Unexplained bank withdrawals or money transfers
• Unpaid bills or utilities despite adequate finances
• Missing belongings or property
• Suspicious changes in legal documents (e.g., power of attorney)
• A caregiver showing unusual interest in the elder’s finances
• The elder appears unaware of financial arrangements made in their name

The failure to provide for an elder’s basic needs, including food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and medical care. Neglect may be:

• Active Neglect: Intentional failure to fulfill caregiving duties, possibly due to expectations of inheritance
• Passive Neglect: Unintentional failure due to the caregiver’s own limitations or lack of resources
• Self-Neglect: When an individual is unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental impairments

Note: Self-neglect accounts for nearly half of all elder abuse cases.

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns
• Sudden changes in behavior or mood
• Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or untreated medical issues

• Isolation from friends or family
• Missing money or valuables
• Unfamiliar individuals becoming involved in the elder’s finances

Report it

You do not need proof of abuse. Trained professionals will investigate.

Observe and document

Note what you saw, who was involved, and any patterns or concerns.

Take action

Don’t assume someone else has already reported it.