If you or someone you know needs help, please refer them to APS by calling the DSS OneNumber at 718-557-1399.
Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. It is a term used to describe five subtypes of elder abuse: physical abuse, financial fraud, scams and exploitation, caregiver neglect and abandonment, psychological abuse, and sexual abuse.
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.
In many circumstances, it's considered age 65.
Elder abuse is a single or repeated act of intentional or negligent behavior perpetrated by a caregiver, entity, family member, staff, or trusted individual, that causes harm to a vulnerable older adult.
A vulnerable adult is defined by law as a person who: is 60 years old or older and does not have the functional, mental, or physical ability to care for himself/herself; has been found by a judge to be incapacitated section 11.130. has a developmental disability as defined by law; was admitted to any facility;
Prevention Listen to older adults to understand their challenges and provide support. Educate yourself and others about how to recognize and report abuse. Learn how the signs of abuse differ from the normal aging process. Check-in on older adults who may have few friends and family members.