Legal Definitions - abuse of the elderly

Abuse of the elderly is when a caregiver mistreats or harms an older person. This can include not giving them enough food or medicine, hitting them, saying hurtful things, or keeping them isolated from others. It is also called elder abuse.

For example, if a nursing home worker doesn't give an elderly resident their medication on purpose, that is abuse. Or if a family member yells at an older relative and threatens to hurt them, that is also abuse.

Abuse of the elderly can cause physical or emotional harm, and it is against the law. It is important to report any suspected abuse to the authorities so that the older person can be protected and the abuser can be held accountable.