How to Stop Elderly Abuse

Get help for the abused elderly.

Elderly abuse is a common problem. Be it physical or emotional, any kind of abuse is cruel and against the law. More often than not, effective communication between the abuser and the abused, and help from family and friends, can resolve the issue. However, there are also several organizations that can provide assistance.

Instructions

1. Get in touch with the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (NCPEA). Their website has a links page with useful information about who to contact if an elderly person you know is being abused by family, friends or anybody else (see references).

2. In an emergency, call 911 (or the emergency number in your country). Be prepared to provide information about the person you think is being abused, including his name, age, gender and how you know him.

3. Get in touch with your state's online abuse hotline. (See references for an example.) They respond quickly and will be able to suggest remedies.

4. Consider talking to a lawyer. Though some are expensive, others do not charge until the case has been resolved or charge reduced rates.

5. Don't be afraid to talk about abuse with friends and family. They may provide the best help you can get.

References

• Area Agency on Aging: Help Stop Elder Abuse
• National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: Preventing the Abuse of Elders