Recognizing Elder Abuse

What is Elder Abuse?  

• Physical abuse - the use of force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain or impairment. This includes inappropriate restraint.
• Sexual abuse - non-consensual sexual contact of any kind with an elderly person.
• Emotional or psychological abuse - the infliction of anguish, pain or distress.
• Financial abuse - the illegal or improper use of an elder's funds, property or assets. This can include forgery, fraud, unexplained transfers of an elders' assets and the unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions.
• Neglect - the refusal or failure of a caregiver to fulfill his or her care-giving responsibilities.

  Elder crime victims are among the most underserved of any victim group in the United States, according to Susan Herman, executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime. Serving this group presents an enormous challenge for the criminal justice system and senior service agencies as the proportion of older adults continues to increase faster than any other age group.

If you suspect someone is a victim of elder abuse or you yourself have experienced, your confidential report can be made by contacting Northumberland Sheriff's Office at 804-580-5221.


Click here: National Center on Elder Abuse