Elder abuse is the mistreatment or neglect of an elderly person, and may include physical abuse, verbal and mental abuse, financial abuse or exploitation, or neglect.

Never ignore elder abuse. It’s important to realize that:

Elder abuse is real. Most elder abuse is hidden. It’s not “the way things are,” it’s not okay, and it’s not acceptable. Elder abuse is a crime.

Elder abuse is discrimination. Ageism is a major cause of elder abuse. There are clear links between age discrimination, disempowerment and elder abuse.
Elder abuse is unacceptable.
Elder abuse is demeaning.
Age discrimination and the intentional minimizing of an older person’s rights leads to elder abuse being hidden.
Elder abuse is deplorable.
Elder abuse is preventable. Awareness and empowerment of older persons is a very effective tool in the response to elder abuse.
Elder abuse is avoidable.

Do you know of someone who has limited family contact, limited social contact, a history of forgetfulness, is in poor health, demonstrates a decline in self-care or social contacts, wanders away from home, or exhibits signs of unusual habits or activity? You may be seeing someone who is at risk for abuse, neglect or exploitation. Please make it your business to get involved. Ask some questions to see it that person might need intervention. If so, please contact Adult Protective Services at (865) 594-5685. (source)