What is Elder Abuse?

The New York Country District Attorney's office defines elder abuse as any crime or violation involving a victim who is 60 years of age or older.  Examples of typical crimes committed against the elderly include:

• Domestic abuse or neglect at the hands of a family member or caregiver;
• Financial exploitation committed by a family member or relative, home aide, stranger or “professional;”
• Abuse of a power of attorney by someone entrusted to act as a fiduciary;
• Virtual eviction by drug dealers who haven’t taken over an elderly person's residence or building