Elder abuse – often as nursing home abuse – refers to any intentional or negligent act or omission that causes harm or distress to residents in a nursing home or long-term care facility, or at home or some other living arrangement. It can take various forms, including:

1. Physical Abuse: Any non-accidental use of physical force that causes injury or pain, such as hitting, pushing, restraining, or inappropriate use of medication or physical restraints.
2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Inflicting emotional pain, distress, or mental anguish through verbal or non-verbal means. This can include humiliation, intimidation, threats, isolation, or belittling the elderly person.
3. Sexual Abuse: Non-consensual sexual contact of any kind, including unwanted touching, sexual assault, or rape. It can involve both physical and psychological harm.
4. Neglect: Failing to provide the necessary care and attention required for the well-being of the elderly person. Neglect can include withholding food, water, medication, personal hygiene assistance, or necessary medical care.
5. Financial Exploitation: Illegally or improperly using an elderly person's financial resources or property for personal gain. This can involve stealing money, forging signatures, coercing the resident into changing wills or granting power of attorney, or unauthorized use of credit cards or bank accounts.
6. Abandonment: Deserting an elderly person who requires care, either intentionally or through negligence, by leaving them alone without arranging for their necessary care and support.

It is important to note that abuse of the elderly can occur in various ways, and the signs may not always be evident. Family members and caregivers should be vigilant for signs of abuse, such as unexplained injuries, changes in behavior or mood, social withdrawal, unclean or unsanitary living conditions, sudden weight loss, bed sores, multiple falls, or unexplained financial transactions. If abuse or neglect is suspected, it should be reported to the appropriate authorities or regulatory agencies for investigation, and contact with an attorney is advised.