The Scale of the Problem
Elder Abuse by the Numbers
Elder abuse is a serious public health crisis, yet it remains vastly underreported. The following statistics come from the National Council on Aging, the CDC, and peer-reviewed research:
1 in 10 Elderly Americans
Experience some form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation — roughly 5 million people per year, though estimates vary widely due to underreporting.
Only 1 in 14 Cases Reported
Studies suggest the vast majority of elder abuse goes unreported. Fear of retaliation, cognitive impairment, shame, and dependence on the abuser all prevent victims from speaking up.
300% Higher Mortality Risk
Abused elders have a three times higher risk of death compared to non-abused peers of the same age and health status, according to research published in JAMA.
$36B+ in Financial Losses
Financial exploitation alone costs American seniors an estimated $36 billion per year — and this figure likely significantly understates the actual total.
Types of Abuse
The 6 Forms of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can take many forms, often occurring simultaneously. See detailed signs and information for each type →
Physical AbuseHitting, slapping, pushing, inappropriate restraint
Emotional/Psychological AbuseThreats, humiliation, isolation, verbal attacks
Financial ExploitationTheft, forgery, manipulation of finances or wills
Sexual AbuseAny non-consensual sexual contact or exposure
NeglectFailure to provide food, care, hygiene, or supervision
AbandonmentDesertion by a caregiver responsible for care
Who Is at Risk
Who Is Most Vulnerable to Elder Abuse
Certain characteristics significantly increase an elderly person's risk of abuse:
- Cognitive impairment — dementia patients cannot report abuse and are easy targets
- Social isolation — those with few visitors have less oversight and fewer advocates
- Physical dependence — inability to perform self-care creates complete reliance on caregivers
- Women — women are abused at higher rates across all categories
- People 80 and older — the oldest seniors face the highest risk
- Residents with significant assets — higher financial exploitation risk
- Facilities with high staff turnover — unstable care environments correlate with higher abuse rates
Why It Goes Unreported
Barriers to Reporting Elder Abuse
Cognitive Impairment
Many victims have dementia or Alzheimer's and cannot effectively communicate what is happening to them. Abusers often target these residents specifically because of this vulnerability.
Fear of Retaliation
Residents who depend entirely on staff for daily care are afraid that reporting abuse will result in worse treatment or being moved to a less desirable facility.
Shame and Denial
Many elderly victims feel ashamed, particularly when abused by family members or financial exploitation. They may minimize what happened to protect their abuser.
Limited Family Access
Some facilities limit visiting hours or discourage unannounced visits. Without regular oversight, abuse can continue undetected for months or years.
How to Report
Reporting Elder Abuse
If you suspect elder abuse, multiple agencies can investigate and intervene:
1
Adult Protective Services (APS)
Every state has an APS agency that investigates reports of elder abuse. You can find your local agency through the Eldercare Locator at eldercare.acl.gov or by calling 1-800-677-1116.
2
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Ombudsmen advocate specifically for nursing home and assisted living residents. They can investigate complaints, facilitate resolution, and refer cases to enforcement agencies.
3
Local Law Enforcement
For criminal abuse — physical assault, sexual abuse, or large-scale financial exploitation — contact local police. Criminal cases and civil lawsuits can proceed simultaneously.
4
An Elder Abuse Attorney
Before filing any complaint, consult an attorney. They can advise on evidence preservation, prevent facilities from covering up abuse, and help you understand your legal rights. Call 1-800-555-0199 for a free consultation.
Legal Rights
Your Legal Rights — and How to Find an Attorney
Victims of elder abuse — and their families — have the right to pursue civil legal action against the individuals and institutions responsible. Legal options include:
- Negligence lawsuit — against the facility for failing its duty of care
- Elder abuse statute claims — many states have specific elder abuse laws with enhanced damages
- Wrongful death claim — if abuse contributed to death
- Financial exploitation claim — to recover stolen assets
- Punitive damages — available in egregious cases to punish the facility
Elder abuse attorneys work on contingency — meaning no upfront cost and no fee unless you win. Learn how to choose the right attorney →
Free Case Evaluation — Available 24/7
Our network of elder abuse attorneys will review your case for free. No obligation. Completely confidential.
1-800-555-0199Free · Confidential · No fee unless you win
Start Free Review →