Why Is Elder Abuse Seldom Reported?

Some victims do not report abuse because:

• they are afraid of retaliation,
• they think they will be put in an institution,
• they are ashamed that a family member mistreats them,
• they think that the police and social agencies cannot really help them, or
• they think that no one will believe them.

Sometimes people who believe that someone else is being abused do not report their suspicions because:

• they do not know who to speak to,
• they do not know what can be done,
• they think that no one will believe them, or
• they just do not want to get involved.

No matter where they happen, cases of criminal abuse and serious neglect should be reported to the police.