If my aunt is not reporting the abuse she appears to be suffering, should I report it for her?

If there is any possibility of immediate danger of physical harm, then you should consider notifying the police or social services immediately. Otherwise, it is important to deal with cases of suspected abuse with a degree of care, particularly because the abuser might retaliate against the elderly person. It is also important to respect the dignity of the elderly person who might choose to accept or reject help.

Agreement on the part of the elderly person to any subsequent actions is very important, unless the person is not mentally competent. For this reason, you should speak with your aunt before taking any action and be sure that all possible outcomes of intervention are considered. In order to help her make her decision, you can bring to your aunt's attention many resources on elderly abuse and the names of agencies that can offer assistance.

---

January 2006

see also:

• More Abuse of Older Adults FAQs

Back