Elder Abuse

In the United States, elder abuse is defined by state law. All states have laws that address physical abuse, such as hitting or slapping; most also cover much more. Other types of elder abuse can include emotional or psychological abuse (the infliction of anguish, pain, or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts) and sexual abuse (nonconsensual sexual contact of any kind or sexual contact with a person considered incapable of giving consent). Due to poor physical or mental health or frailty, some elders require help with basic needs such as food and personal safety. If someone has agreed to provide such care and fails to do so, it is considered[Page 359] neglect. It is called self-neglect when the elder is unable or refuses to obtain ...