What is Elder Abuse?
Protecting our elders and senior citizens is a vital part of our mission. Our Elder Abuse Unit is dedicated to addressing crimes against the elderly. We work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that victims get the care and support they deserve.
Who Is At Risk? The National Council on Aging reports that approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 60+ has experienced some form of elder abuse.
Who Is To Blame? 90% of suspects of elder abuse are family members, loved ones, or trusted caregivers.
Seniors (anyone who is 65 years of age or over the age of 60 AND suffers from infirmities of aging under Florida Statute 825) may be vulnerable to certain types of crimes, including:
Financial Abuse: Misappropriation of financial resources or abusive use of financial control
Physical Abuse: Involves any intentional injury of an elder or dependent adult
Neglect: A caregiver who fails to provide the most basic level of care in a way that endangers an elder person’s health and well-being
Emotional Abuse: Verbal and non-verbal actions that can include intimidation, isolation, humiliation, and other tactics
Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact with an elder adult
IMPORTANT NUMBERS/COMMUNITY RESOURCES
IN AN EMERGENCY – CALL 911
