In 1900, an American's average lifespan was 47. Today, it is 78.

Overview What is elder abuse? Signs of abuse Myths about elder abuse Rights of vulnerable adults Maintaining connections Current laws Legislative updates Laws by state Articles of interest COMMON FORMS OF ABUSE Many people mistakenly assume that only battered paople are abused. → More TAKE ACTION "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."             Dr. Margaret Mead Gary A. Jones When Gary Jones became sick with terminal cancer, his caregiver denied him visitation with his children. → More Click on a state to begin. The current laws in that state will be displayed below. Iowa In the state of Iowa, abuse is defined as follows: Physical abuse: Physical injury to, or injury which is at a variance with the history given of the injury, or unreasonable confinement, unreasonable punishment, or assault of a dependent adult. Sexual abuse: The commission of a sexual offense under chapter 709 or section 726.2 with or against a dependent adult. Exploitation: Exploitation of a dependent adult means the act or process of taking unfair advantage of a dependent adult or the adult's physical or financial resources for one's own personal or pecuniary profit, without the informed consent of the dependent adult, including theft, by the use of undue influence, harassment, duress, deception, false representation, or false pretenses. Neglect: The deprivation of the minimum food, shelter, clothing, supervision, physical or mental health care, or other care necessary to maintain a dependent adult's life or health. Here are some links for reference on elder abuse in the state of Iowa: http://www.legis.state.ia.us/IACODE/2001/235B/2.html http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/aging/agin3363.html http://www.state.ia.us/elderaffairs/advocacy/elderabuse.html