Two-thirds of elder abuse is committed by spouses or adult children.

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. Texas In Texas, elder abuse is defined as follows: Abuse means the negligent or willful infliction of injury, unreasonable confinement, intimidation, or cruel punishment with resulting physical or emotional harm or pain to an elderly or disabled person by the person's caretaker, family member, or other individual who has an ongoing relationship with the person. It also means sexual abuse of an elderly or disabled person, including any involuntary or nonconsensual sexual conduct that would constitute an offense under Section 21.08, Penal Code (indecent exposure) or Chapter 22, Penal Code (assaultive offenses), committed by the person's caretaker, family member, or other individual who has an ongoing relationship with the person. Exploitation means the illegal or improper act or process of a caretaker, family member, or other individual who has an ongoing relationship with the elderly or disabled person using the resources of an elderly or disabled person for monetary or personal benefit, profit, or gain without the informed consent of the elderly or disabled person. Neglect means the failure to provide for one's self the goods or services, including medical services, which are necessary to avoid physical or emotional harm or pain or the failure of a caretaker to provide such goods or services. Here are some links for reference on elder abuse in the state of Texas: http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/.../about_adult_protective_services http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Documents/.../pdf/2004APS.pdf http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/statutes/hr.toc.htm (see Chapter 48. Investigations and protective services for elderly and disabled persons)