This national problem crosses all social, economic, racial, and ethnic barriers. Many prefer to either suffer in silence or deny mistreatment. Many victims fear rejection and find the abusive situation less frightening than the unknown risks of living on their own or in a nursing home. Stopping abuse and ensuring an elder's safety requires close collaboration between law enforcement and other professionals. As with most community problems, the police and other community organizations should not only enforce laws, but work to prevent the abuse before it starts.
Elder abuse is extremely complex.
Generally, psychological, social, and economic factors come into play, along with the mental and physical conditions of the victim and the perpetrator. More than two-thirds of abusers are family members of the victims, typically serving in a caregiving role. Many people feel a sense of duty or guilt to care for a parent or other family member at home. This is not always a logical choice. Perhaps the caregiver is in failing health.