06/18/2025
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was observed on June 15th. It is observed each year so that communities can better understand, recognize and combat the abuse of older, vulnerable adults.
What is older person abuse?
Older person abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. An older adult is someone aged 60 or older.
The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or other trusted person. Common types of abuse include:
Physical abuse is illness, injury, functional impairment, or death resulting from the intentional use of physical force. Examples include hitting, kicking, or pushing.
Sexual abuse is forced or unwanted sexual interaction. Examples include unwanted sexual contact or pe*******on or non-contact acts such as sexual harassment.
Emotional or psychological abuse refers to verbal or nonverbal behaviors that inflict anguish, fear, or distress. Examples include humiliation, threats, or harassment.
Neglect is the failure to meet an older adult's basic needs. These needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and essential medical care.
Financial abuse is the illegal, unauthorized, or improper use of money, benefits, property, or assets for the benefit of someone other than the older adult.
To report by phone β call Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). Press 2 to report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. This toll free number is available 24/7. TTY (Telephone Device for the Deaf): 1-800-955-8771. To report via fax, please print and complete the DCF fax reporting form with details and fax to 1-800-914-0004.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/elder-abuse/about/index.html
Source: https://elderaffairs.org/programs-services/elder-protection-programs/
Elder Abuse Prevention Program Elder abuse refers to any knowing, intentional or negligent act causing harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. Abuse, neglect, exploitation, or fraud can happen anywhere, anytime, and often affects the most Read More ...