Protecting Our Elders: What You Need to Know About Elder Abuse

Elder abuse, sometimes called senior abuse, happens when someone intentionally causes harm to an older adult or fails to provide the care they need. This harm can take many forms, including physical injury, emotional distress, financial exploitation, or neglect. In some cases, the abuse is a single event; in others, it’s part of a long-term pattern. Sadly, the World Health Organization estimates that only 1 in 24 cases of elder abuse is ever reported. Abuse can happen in a senior’s own home, often by someone they trust, or in a care facility, where oversight may be limited. Many older adults don’t speak up because they rely on the person harming them, or they’re afraid of what might happen if they do. The consequences can be serious—sometimes even life-threatening.

Types of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse doesn’t always look the same. Physical abuse is one of the most visible forms, but even less obvious behaviors can be damaging. Emotional abuse, like yelling, insults, or intimidation, can leave deep scars and lead to anxiety or depression. Sexual abuse—whether physical or verbal—is also a real concern. Financial abuse is another common issue, involving stolen money, pressure to change legal documents, or suspicious withdrawals from bank accounts. Then there’s neglect, which happens when someone fails to provide food, medication, hygiene, or a safe living environment. Any situation where a senior’s basic needs are ignored or violated should be taken seriously.

Who Is Most at Risk for Elder Abuse?

While elder abuse can happen to anyone, some older adults are more at risk than others. People living with dementia, memory loss, or other cognitive conditions may not be able to recognize abuse or ask for help. Seniors who are physically frail or live alone without nearby family or friends may also be more vulnerable. Unfortunately, even in professional care settings, abuse can go unnoticed—especially if staff are overworked or poorly trained. Women are statistically more likely to be affected than men, and those with disabilities face a higher risk as well. Abuse can hide in plain sight for years, so it’s important to stay alert and informed.

Common Signs of Elder Abuse

Spotting the signs of elder abuse isn’t always easy, but there are some things to watch for. Unexplained bruises, cuts, or other injuries may raise concerns—especially if the senior seems afraid or unsure how they got hurt. A sudden change in behavior, like becoming withdrawn or losing interest in favorite activities, can also be a warning sign. Poor hygiene, weight loss, dirty clothes, or a messy living space might point to neglect. In more severe cases, you might notice bedsores, signs of restraint, or untreated medical issues. Financial red flags include missing money, unpaid bills, or unusual purchases. Verbal abuse and controlling behavior can be just as harmful as physical harm, and even more difficult to detect. If something feels off, it’s worth looking into.

Preventing Elder Abuse

Reducing the risk of elder abuse starts with staying involved and speaking up. If you ever believe a senior is in immediate danger, call 911. For non-urgent concerns, contact your state’s Adult Protective Services or elder abuse hotline. In many states, professionals like healthcare workers and caregivers are mandated reporters meaning they’re legally required to report suspected abuse. But anyone can take steps to help. Regularly checking in on older adults, asking how they’re doing, and observing their environment can make a big difference. It’s also important to make sure caregivers are properly screened, trained, and supported. Family members who are caring for a loved one should have access to help, including respite care and support groups, to avoid burnout. And the more we talk about elder abuse and what it looks like, the better chance we have of stopping it before it starts.

Comfort Keepers Provides Compassionate, Trustworthy, Care

At Comfort Keepers ®, we believe every senior deserves to feel safe, respected, and cared for. Our professional caregivers are trained to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, and we are committed to creating a supportive, nurturing environment for every client. Through our personalized in-home care and Interactive Caregiving™ approach, we help older adults stay connected, engaged, and protected in the comfort of their own homes.