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About Abuse

Elder Abuse

Updated: August 15, 2019

How common is abuse among older adults?

The National Council on Aging reports that one in ten Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. However, only one in 24 cases are reported to the authorities. In almost 60% of older person abuse and neglect incidents, the perpetrator is a family member and most likely an adult child or spouse. Other times, abuse happens in institutions, such as residential care, hospitals, and daycare facilities.1

1 “Elder Abuse Facts,” National Council on Aging

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