Elder Abuse

Elder abuse includes physical and financial abuse, as well as neglect of persons 65 years of age and older.

Neglect typically means the refusal or failure to provide an elderly person with such life necessities as food, water, clothing, shelter, personal hygiene, medicine, comfort, personal safety, and other essentials of daily living.

Physical abuse is defined as the use of physical force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain, or impairment. Physical abuse may include inappropriate use of drugs and physical restraints, force-feeding, and physical punishment of any kind.

Failing to meet these standards is a crime. Families who prove especially egregious elder abuse may, among other remedies, be entitled to recover attorney fees.