Elder abuse is a broad term which encompasses several different forms of neglect, abuse, and exploitation of an older person. There are hundreds of thousands of victims of elder abuse across America every year, and the problem is growing. Victims of elder abuse are often vulnerable and sometimes even dependent on the very people who abuse them. The abusers may be caregivers, friends, or even family members.
Ability is a privilege, and as those who are able it is our duty to help those who are in need.
—Gary Galiher, Founding Partner of Galiher DeRobertis & Waxman
Definitions and legal standards differ widely from one state to another. In Hawaiʻi, HRS § 28-94 defines “abuse” as “actual or imminent physical injury, psychological abuse or neglect, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, negligent treatment, or maltreatment.” Most of the relevant statutes in Hawaiʻi define an elder as someone 62 years of age or older.
The Most Common Types of Elder Abuse Are:
- Neglect: Disregard for the health, safety or welfare of an elder that results in injury, loss or damage.
- Physical Abuse: Intentionally causing physical pain or injury to an elder, such as slapping or pushing.
- Sexual Abuse: Any form of non-consensual sexual contact.
- Emotional Abuse: Intentionally or negligently causing anguish, or distress to an elder through acts such as intimidation and harassment.
- Financial Exploitation: Any improper misuse of an elder’s finances for someone’s own benefit. Also includes fraudulent schemes aimed at vulnerable individuals, such as announcements of a “prize” or investment fraud.
Elders are especially vulnerable and less able to stand up for themselves or fight back. Depending on the circumstances, they may have even have a limited or complete inability to communicate or explain the abuse they have suffered. Some elders may have disabilities or dementia that allow others to take advantage of them.
Tragically, many cases of elder abuse are committed by the individuals who are directly responsible for their care. Elder abuse typically occurs where the senior lives, whether that is a residential home, or a senior care home such as an assisted living facility or adult residential care home.
