Elder Abuse

It is important that when we think of domestic abuse, we don’t forget that it can affect anyone of any age.

An elderly person may be regarded as a “vulnerable adult” or “adult at risk”, and there are multi-agency policies and procedures for the safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults.

You can find details of these on your local authority’s Adult Safeguarding Board website.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 999

Who is at Risk?

Both older men and women are at risk of being abused. The abuser is usually well known to the person being abused. They may be:

  • A partner, child or relative
  • A friend or neighbour
  • A paid or volunteer care worker
  • A health or social worker, or other professional
  • Someone the older person cares for

Often, the people who abuse older people are exploiting a unique relationship. They are in a position of trust, whether through family bonds, friendship or through a paid caring role, and they exploit that trust.

Help Available

An elderly person may be regarded as a “vulnerable adult” or “adult at risk”, and there are multi-agency policies and procedures for the safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults. You can find details of these on your local authority’s Adult Safeguarding Board website.

Further reading and resources