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The Mandated Reporting of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse can take many forms, including emotional, physical, financial and even sexual abuse. All states have laws addressing the reporting of suspected elder abuse.

  1. Who Must Report

    • By law, doctors, nurses, caregivers, hospice workers, social workers and other healthcare professionals are encouraged to report suspected cases of elder abuse. In some states, including California, reporting is mandatory, which means that a report must be filed, with or without the consent of the victim of the alleged abuse, under penalty of law.

    What Must Be Reported

    • Mandated reporters (health care professionals in states where reporting is mandated) must file reports if they suspect that elder abuse has occurred. Signs of possible abuse include unexplained bruises and other injuries, withdrawn, childlike behavior, and dehydration or malnutrition. Financial abuse can be spotted by unexplained withdrawals from the senior's bank account. Self-neglect must also be reported.

    Penalties For Failure To Report

    • People classified as mandated reporters who suspect elder abuse but fail to report it can face criminal penalties including fines and possible jail time, depending on the state, the severity of the abuse and other factors.

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