ABA Family Legal Guide

The Rights of Older Americans

A Right to Control Your Own Affairs

Abuse and Exploitation

Is elder abuse just a problem for very frail old people who live in nursing homes?

Elder abuse is a real problem for many older people regardless of whether they live in their own home or in a nursing home. Some victims are very frail and are unable to seek help on their own. However, many elder abuse victims are physically or mentally capable of seeking help but cannot or do not do so for a variety of reasons, including fear that they will not be believed, love or concern for the person abusing them, fear that they will lose their independence, or a belief that nothing can be done about the abuse.

Elder abuse can be a problem for both the rich and the poor. It affects older people of all races and ethnic groups, social classes, and economic levels.