Laws and definitions of terms vary considerably from one state to another, but all states have set up reporting systems. National Elder Abuse Incidence Study Reports to APS agencies of domestic elder abuse increased 150 percent between 1986 and 1996. This increase dramatically exceeded the 10 percent increase in the older population over the same period. Two-thirds of the perpetrators were adult children or spouses. Generally Accepted Definitions Physical abuse is the willful infliction of physical pain or injury, e.g., slapping, bruising, sexually molesting, or restraining.
Sexual abuse is the infliction of non-consensual sexual contact of any kind.
Psychological abuse is the infliction of mental or emotional anguish, e.g., humiliating, intimidating, or threatening. Neglect is the failure of a caretaker to provide goods or services necessary to avoid physical harm, mental anguish or mental illness, e.g., abandonment, denial of food or health related services. We provide critical information and assistance and programs that protect the rights of vulnerable, at-risk older persons through the national aging network. The APS agency screens calls for potential seriousness. The agency keeps the information it receives confidential.