ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the nature and causes of elder abuse, the circumstances in which it often occurs, and what people can do if people, or someone people know, are victimized or in danger of becoming a victim. Abuse, neglect, and exploitation form the trio of what is usually just called elder abuse. Abuse can be conduct or statements that injure or threaten the physical or psychological well-being of an older person. Psychological abuse, even though it may leave no physical injury, is no less serious than physical abuse. Elder abuse occurs both in institutional settings, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and board and care homes, and in noninstitutional settings, such as the victim’s home or the home of a caregiver. Abuse and neglect are more common in institutions that serve the poor because such institutions often cannot afford to hire quality employees or to provide decent care.
