{"id":355741,"date":"2016-04-04T11:01:49","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:01:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/elder\/elder-abuse\/signs-of-elder-abuse.html"},"modified":"2026-08-04T15:41:00","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T20:41:00","slug":"signs-of-elder-abuse","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/elder\/elder-abuse\/signs-of-elder-abuse.html","title":{"rendered":"Older Adult Abuse: Warning Signs and Reporting Information"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Older Adult Abuse: Warning Signs and Reporting Information<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Older adult abuse can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, financial, or neglect<\/span>. It often shows up through unexplained injuries, sudden behavioral changes, or signs of poor living conditions. Recognizing these warning signs<\/span> is crucial for protecting vulnerable adults. If you suspect abuse, contacting Adult Protective Services<\/span> or a local hotline can help ensure the older adult gets immediate support and intervention.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Older adult abuse can happen anywhere. It can happen at a long-term care facility or the older person\u2019s home. Several factors increase the risk of elder abuse<\/span>. These include mental illness, social isolation<\/span>, a lack of mobility, and a lack of financial resources.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0U.S. Department of Justice estimates\u00a0<\/a>that about one in 10 adults over 65 are abused each year. This can include vulnerable adult abuse, such as the abuse of adults with disabilities.<\/p>\n

Types of mistreatment people over 65 can experience include:<\/p>\n