How to Report Elder Abuse in Massachusetts

Elder abuse occurs when a caregiver mistreats an elderly person---60 years of age or older---by engaging in acts that are physically, sexually, financially or emotionally abusive. Elder abuse also applies to when caretakers neglect to properly care for an elderly person or even when an elderly person fails to take care of himself or herself. In Massachusetts, you can help stop elder abuse by reporting any incidents that you are aware of to the state.

Instructions

1. Call 911. If a senior citizen is in immediate danger, report it by calling 911.

2. Call your local Aging Services Access Point, which is an organization designed to protect seniors (as well as offer medical care services), if you know of elder abuse that is not an emergency situation. You can find the office closest to you by logging on to www.seniorconnection.org/aaa_asap.htm.

3. Call the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hot Line any time at 800-922-2275. When you call, you can provide information about the abuse, the name and address of the person being abused and the medical treatment the senior is receiving.

4. Call the long-term care ombudsman if the abuse is taking place at a nursing home. You can find the nearest one to call at www.mass.gov/Eelders/docs/ltc_ombudsman_contact.pdf.

References

• Massresources.org: Elder Abuse and Protective Services