An elder abuse investigation typically takes several weeks to several months, depending on various factors, including the type and severity of the suspected abuse.
The Elder Justice Act established the Elder Justice Coordinating Council to coordinate activities related to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation across the federal government. It is also a source of authority for ACL programs and activities that include: Elder Abuse Prevention Intervention Demonstrations (PPHF)
Under ARS 13-3623, individuals can be prosecuted for intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing physical injury, emotional harm, or neglect to a vulnerable adult or child. The law classifies the severity of the offense based on the extent of harm caused and includes provisions for both misdemeanors and felonies.
A caretaker's leaving an elderly patient home alone for a significant amount of time could be considered neglect, at the very least, and possibly abandonment.
This definition aligns with the government defined definition that a senior citizen is one who is at the age 65.
Elder abuse includes acts of any physical, emotional, financial, or sexual mistreatment of an elderly individual. Neglect and abandonment of an elderly person can also be considered elder abuse.