Elder Abuse: A Serious and Often Hidden Crisis
If you suspect elder abuse, don’t wait. Contact Erie County Social Services - Adult Protective Services Unit at (716) 858-6877.
What is Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse refers to intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that cause harm or serious risk to a person aged 60 or older. Abuse can take many forms, including:
Types of 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.
4. Financial Exploitation
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
5. Neglect
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.
Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse
No single sign proves abuse. Look for patterns or clusters of indicators, such as:
- 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
What Should I Do If I Suspect Abuse?
Most elder abuse cases go unreported. If you suspect something is wrong:
- 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.
To Report Suspected Abuse:
- In the community: Call Erie County Adult Protective Services at (716) 858-6877
- In a nursing home or facility: Call the New York State Justice Center at (518) 549-0200
- Statewide Hotline (VPCR): Call 1-855-373-2122 (toll-free)