Nearly 90 percent of alleged elder abuse cases were reported to have occurred in a domestic setting.

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. Pennsylvania In Pennsylvania, abuse is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the following acts: The infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation or punishment that results in physical harm, pain or mental anguish. The willful deprivation by a caretaker of goods or services, which are necessary to maintain physical or mental health. Sexual harassment, rape or abuse, as defined in the act of October 7, 1976 (P.L.1090, No.218), known as the Protection from Abuse Act. No older adult shall be found to be abused solely on the grounds of environmental factors that are beyond the control of the older adult or the caretaker, such as inadequate housing, furnishings, income, clothing or medical care. Here are some links for reference on elder abuse in the state of Pennsylvania: http://members.aol.com/StatutesP8/35.Cp.50.html http://www.aging.state.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=173897 http://harrisburg.temple.edu/protectiveServices/statistics.asp