Elder Abuse

In the United States, unlike many other cultures, aging is stigmatized and viewed negatively. The care and treatment of elders may also be impacted by this stigma.

The elders who are most vulnerable to abuse are those who are very old, frail and dependent upon others. It is estimated that approximately one million cases of elder abuse occur in the U.S. every year.

People over 65 years of age represent over fifteen percent of Maine’s population and that percentage is increasing. Elder abuse isn't easily identified and goes unreported in many cases.

Elder Abuse
This self-paced, interactive lesson uses graphics and animation to provide information about elder abuse and the resources that are available to assist victims when it occurs.
(Test Your Computer's Compatibility)

For a transcript of Elder Abuse for those who prefer to read off-line or for those who use screen readers download Elder Abuse.rtf

For a copy of the slides download Storyboard-Elder Abuse.pdf (Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Maine Bureau of Elder Services
The Bureau is responsible for investigating reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation of incapacitated and dependent adults and for protecting incapacitated and dependent adults in danger or at substantial risk of danger.

Abuse Neglect and Exploitation in Licensed Facilities

Maine Legal Services for the Elderly
Provides free, high quality legal assistance to socially and economically needy Maine residents age 60 and older.

Elder Abuse, a two part guide prepared by Legal Services for the Elderly

Administration on Aging
The Administration on Aging is the only federal agency dedicated to policy development, planning, and the delivery of supportive home and community-based services to our nation’s diverse population of older persons and their caregivers. They provide critical information, assistance and programs that protect the rights of vulnerable, at-risk older persons through the national aging network.

National Center on Elder Abuse
This site contains many resources to help you find the assistance, publications, data, information, and answers you need about elder abuse.