Investigating allegations of elder abuse can be complicated

Abstract

Elder abuse appears in many forms: physical, neglectful, sexual, emotional, and financial. Some are easily recognizable. Others are not. Regardless of the form, elder abuse is widespread, often hard to detect, and can be deadly. The good news is there are many community and government resources that address elder abuse. The bad news is that these resources do not come with a guarantee. Identifying and addressing each instance of abuse presents inherent roadblocks. Many roadblocks only serve to underscore the complicated nature of elder abuse. Victims may not have a viable support system. They often live alone, have few family or friends close by, and can be isolated because of a disability, memory loss, dementia, or overmedication.