Learn more about elder physical abuse

Physical abuse of a person 60 years of age or older is defined by the National Center on Elder Abuse as “intentional or reckless physical harm or physical coercion that is likely to cause physical injury, physical pain, or disability.” Under the Elder Law Act, physical abuse is intentional or reckless physical harm or physical coercion that is likely to cause physical injury, physical pain, or disability. “Physical harm” means “physical injury, disability, or illness.” The Department of Justice reports that 1 in 20 people age 60 and older experience physical abuse. Physical abuse accounts for 2.6% of all elder abuse cases.

Physical abuse includes, but is not limited to:

• Hitting, slapping, pushing, shaking, hitting, kicking, pinching, burning

• The use of unlawful, excessive or unnecessary force, such as restraint or force-feeding.

• Medication overdoses or underdoses

In 2023, Napa County Adult Protective Services (APS) received 1,376 allegations of elder abuse, of which 907 were opened and 758 were reported as “unduplicated” clients. Of these reported incidents, 348 met the definition of physical/physical “caregiving” abuse. Women are the most common victims of elder abuse. Elder abuse can occur by a variety of people, including family members, caregivers, friends, health care providers, and strangers, but incidents are most often committed by people close to them, such as family and friends.

Identifying physical abuse in the elderly is complicated by the natural aging process. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to tears and bruising. However, an elderly person’s repeated bruises and cuts that do not heal could be a sign of physical abuse. Similarly, a broken bone from a fall could be a sign of being pushed over rather than losing balance as part of everyday life.

Signs of physical abuse include, but are not limited to, bruises, cuts, non-healing or recurring fractures, sprains, dislocated joints, cigarette burns, etc. An older adult’s inability to explain injuries or withdrawal from usual activities are also clues to look for.

Elder abuse is a complex issue. Risk factors for abuse are many and varied. Dependence on caregivers, poor family relationships, and social isolation are the most common factors. To determine if your loved one is at risk, ask your family doctor for an evaluation or contact Adult Protective Services for resources and reporting.

It’s not always easy or possible to determine the presence or severity of elder physical abuse, but knowing the risk factors and having access to resources to deal with the abuse of your loved one is a good first step.

Napa County Adult Protective Services

650 Imperial Way, Suite 101, Napa

24 Hour Hotline: 888-619-6913

California Department of Aging – Long Term Care Ombudsman (Elderly abuse in long-term care facilities)

National Center for Elder Abuse

Phone: 1-855-500-3537 (ELDR)

Email: ncea-info@acl.hhs.gov