Understanding Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is often happening out of sight—but it’s more common than many people realize. It affects older adults in every type of community and can include physical harm, emotional or verbal abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect. In many situations, the harm is caused by someone the older adult knows and relies on for support.

Elder abuse isn’t just about individual actions—it’s also about relationships and the conditions people are living in. NCALL (National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life) highlights that preventing and responding to elder abuse takes all of us working together, including health care providers, social services, justice systems, and community members.

What elder abuse can look like

Elder abuse doesn’t always leave obvious signs. It may look like:

• Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents”

• Name-calling, threats, or emotional put-downs

• Sexual harm or unwanted contact

• Missing money or sudden financial changes

• Neglect of basic needs like food, care, or medication

  
  

It can happen at home, in care settings, or anywhere trust is expected—which is part of what makes it so hard to recognize and talk about.

Trust, isolation, and barriers

Because elder abuse often happens within trusted relationships, it can be especially complicated to identify or disclose. Many older adults may also be more isolated or dependent on others, which can increase vulnerability.

Some common barriers to seeking help include:

• Fear of losing independence or housing

• Worry about not being believed

• Limited transportation or access to services

• Dependence on the person causing harm

• Shame, stigma, or privacy concerns

  
  

Building safer communities together

Preventing elder abuse isn’t only about responding when something goes wrong—it’s about staying connected, noticing changes, and building communities where older adults are supported and valued.

At Sojourner, we believe everyone deserves to be safe and live free from fear—at every stage of life. When we stay informed and connected to one another, we’re better able to recognize harm early and support dignity and safety for older adults.

Together, we can create communities where older adults are respected and valued.

Learn more:

National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life (NCALL) https://www.ncall.us/