Elder Abuse: Warning Signs and Where to Get Help
Important: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not legal, medical, or professional advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 (United States) or your local emergency number.
Elder abuse affects millions of older adults each year, yet most cases go unreported. It can take the form of physical harm, financial exploitation, neglect, or emotional abuse — often at the hands of family members or caregivers.
Types of Elder Abuse
- Physical — unexplained injuries, restraint, or rough handling.
- Financial — missing money, sudden account changes, forged signatures.
- Emotional — threats, isolation, humiliation, or control.
- Neglect — failure to provide food, medicine, or care.
Warning Signs
Watch for sudden changes in behavior, unexplained withdrawals, isolation from friends and family, fear of a specific caregiver, or bills going unpaid despite adequate funds. Financial abuse and stalking can overlap — abusers sometimes use technology to monitor and control older victims.
Where to Get Help
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Adult Protective Services (APS) exists in every state to investigate reports of elder abuse. You can also report suspected financial exploitation to local law enforcement and to the bank or financial institution involved.
Contact us for guidance →Reach our team with questions or concerns.Reporting suspected abuse can be the difference between isolation and safety.
Frequently asked questions
What are the signs of elder financial abuse?
Unexplained withdrawals, new people managing money, sudden changes to wills or deeds, and unpaid bills despite adequate funds.
How do I report elder abuse?
Contact Adult Protective Services in the state where the person lives, or call 911 if the situation is an emergency. Banks and law enforcement can also help with financial exploitation.
Can elder abuse involve stalking?
Yes. Abusers may use location tracking, phone monitoring, or isolation tactics against older adults. The same digital safety steps apply.