Statutory Protection of Older Persons

The frequency of mistreatment of older people came to the attention of the general public and lawmakers in the early 1980's. Numerous cases, in which older people were being physically harmed; deprived of food, water, or proper medical attention; and divested of their life savings by caregivers and relatives, were brought to light. When the widespread nature of this abuse and neglect became clear, state legislatures started to enact laws to address these problems.

Today, all states have laws curbing the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older people, but follow different approaches. For instance, in most states, there is a system of adult protective services for investigating and remedying reported abuse. In most states, the abuse or neglect of older people is also a crime. Some states have laws giving victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation civil causes of action for money damages.

If you are a senior citizen who has been mistreated, or if you care about such an individual, do not hesitate to contact an experienced elder law attorney to pursue appropriate legal redress.