Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry announces the largest coordinated elder abuse sweep in history alongside Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson and representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and other participating agencies.
Defining Elder Abuse
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult.
What can be considered elder abuse?
- Physical Abuse including, but not limited to, hitting, kicking, shoving, or causing other physical pain.
- Sexual Abuse including, but not limited to, any touching or other sexual contact with an older adult who did not consent or is unable to consent.
- Emotional Abuse including, but not limited to, behaviors that cause distress, fear, or mental pain.
- Neglect including, but not limited to, failures to meet an older adult’s basic needs such as shelter, medical care, and food.
- Financial Abuse including, but not limited to, theft, improper use of an older adult’s benefits, property, of assets.
Who can be a victim of elder abuse?
- Anyone over the age of 60
Who commits elder abuse?
- Perpetrators of elder abuse could be any individuals who know the victim. This can include caregivers, friends, family members, or other individuals who come in contact with the older adult, including robocall scammers targeting older populations.
How should someone report elder abuse?
For immediate, life-threatening danger, dial 9-1-1 immediately. If you suspect elder abuse that does not include immediate danger, contact the Eldercare Locator by dialing 1-800-677-1116. The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging and can connect individuals to local elder support services.
Chatham District Attorney Meg Heap, then-President of the District Attorney Association of Georgia presents on prosecution of elder physical abuse and neglect.