Most victims of elder abuse depend on the people who hurt them, sometimes for food, shelter, personal care, or companionship. There are many kinds of elder abuse. One kind is physical assault from slapping, pushing, or beating. Others are sexual assault or forced confinement in a room, bed, or chair. Physical assault, sexual assault, and forced confinement are crimes punishable by law.
Elder abuse can also be financial.
If someone close to an older person forces him or her to sell personal property, or steals his or her money, pension cheques, or possessions, this is elder abuse. Fraud, forgery, extortion, and the wrongful use of Power of Attorney can also be elder abuse. Like assault and confinement, these are crimes. Neglect is another kind of elder abuse. If someone abandons an older person or withholds food and health services, this is neglect.