By the year 2020, more than 16 percent of the state's population will be 60 years of age or older. Many of these people will retire comfortably and lead happy and robust lives. However, many of America's elderly are not experiencing the relaxation of retired life. Many are being physically, psychologically or financially exploited - some by strangers, some by acquaintances, and some by their own family members. Gerontologists consider this type of exploitation to be elder abuse.
Elder abuse crosses all social, economic and ethnic lines.
Any elderly person could become a victim. It is important to become aware of the possibility of elder abuse and to be able to recognize signs that might suggest its occurrence. This awareness will enable us to help neighbors, friends or family members who may be in trouble. The following examples outline typical characteristics of elder abuse. Although they are hypothetical, they do include aspects of actual reported cases.