It may occur while the person is living alone, with others or in an institution. Domestic elder abuse refers to mistreatment by someone who has a special relationship with the elder. This person could be a spouse, sibling, child, friend, or other caregiver.
Institutional abuse refers to mistreatment of a resident in a facility for older persons.
This includes nursing homes, foster homes, group homes, or board and care facilities where staff is paid to provide care. Self-neglect occurs when the behavior of an older person living alone threatens his or her own health or safety. There are four common types of elder abuse. Physical abuse is pain or injury inflicted intentionally by a caregiver. It may include slapping, beating, physical restraint, or sexual assault.