Abuse Later in Life Advocacy

Abuse Later in Life

Abuse Has No Age Limit

What is Abuse Later in Life?

Abuse later in life is the intentional act or failure to act that causes harm or the risk of harm to an older adult. It's commonly known as elder abuse.

EVE defines someone who experiences intimate partner violence (IPV) over the age of 50 as having experienced abuse later in life.

Alternatively, abuse perpetrated by caregivers or adult children is considered abuse later in life when the survivor is over 60 years old.

Common Forms of Abuse

Abuse later in life can happen in many ways. Abuse, neglect, and exploitation are all common forms of oppression used by perpetrators.

Neglect or Abandonment

The inability or failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, medical care, etc. by a caregiver.

Signs of neglect or andonment might include:

-Poor hygiene

-Lack of assistive devices

-Lack of dentures, glasses, hearing aids, etc.

-Not being dressed appropriately

Physical Battering

The intentional use of physical force to harm, intimidate, or control another person.

Signs of physical abuse might include:

-Poor hygiene

-Unexpected or unusual sores, injuries, or bruises

-Unattended medical needs

Emotional Abuse

Pattern of behavior aimed at controlling, manipulating, or isolating someone else.

Signs of emotional abuse might include:

- Unusual changes in behavior or sleep patterns

-Withdrawal from normal activities

-Isolation from friends & family

-Increased anxiety or fear

Sexual Assault

Sexual contact or behavior that occurs without explicit consent.

Signs of sexual abuse might include:

-STI/STD

-Bruises, injuries, irritation in genitals

-Difficulty walking or sitting for long periods of time

Financial Exploitation

The misuse of an individual's funds, assets, property, and personal information.

Signs of financial exploitation might include:

-Unpaid bills

-Unusual spending habits

-Unusual loans or gifts

-Sudden changes to accounts or wills

-Abuse of power of attorney or guardianship

EVE advocates are trained to support those who have or are currently experiencing abuse later in life.

Advocates are dedicated to helping survivors age with dignity. Call our 24/7, 365 crisis line at (517) 372-5572 to speak with an advocate about relevant services.

Services include: Medical advocacy, PPO assistance, support with establishing medical teams, housing assistance, and more.

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Myth: Abuse later in life mostly occurs in nursing homes.

Fact: Abuse later in life can happen anywhere, including nursing homes, but is most prevalent in the home. (ALCA)