Definitions of Elder Neglect & Abuse

Elderly abuse can occur in forms other than just physical abuse or neglect. Different forms of elderly abuse are sometimes harder to recognize because physical evidence is not present.

Elderly Abuse - Any act, failure to act, or incitement to act done willfully, knowingly, or recklessly through words or physical action which causes or could cause mental or physical injury or harm or death to an elderly resident. This includes verbal, sexual, mental/psychological, or physical abuse, including corporal punishment, involuntary seclusion, or any other actions within this definition.

Involuntary seclusion - Separation of a nursing home resident from others against the resident's will or the will of the resident's legal representative. A temporary separation from other nursing home residents that is monitored is not classified as involuntary seclusion.

Mental/psychological elderly abuse - Mistreatment that does not result in physical harm. Mental or psychological elderly abuse can include humiliation, harassment, and threats of punishment, deprivation, or intimidation.

Physical elderly abuse - Physical elderly abuse can include, but is not limited to, hitting, slapping, pinching, and kicking of an elderly resident, as well as controlling behavior through corporal punishment.

Sexual elderly abuse - Any touching or exposure of the anus, breast, or any part of the genitals of an elderly resident without the voluntary, informed consent of the resident. Sexual abuse carries the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person and includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment, sexual coercion, or sexual assault.

Verbal elderly abuse - Use of any oral, written, or gestured language that includes disparaging or derogatory terms to an elderly resident or within the resident's hearing distance, regardless of the resident's age, ability to comprehend, or disability.

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Definitions of Elder Neglect & Abuse

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