How to Get Help — For Yourself or a Loved One
Worried About Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse tragically impacts many adults aged 60 and older in New York State. It is estimated that 300,000 older New Yorkers are victimized annually. The resources and links on this page will help you find help if you are a victim or suspect abuse of an older person in your life.
When You — Or Someone You Know — is Being Abused
The community is an important set of eyes and ears. It is critical for family, caregivers, health practitioners, friends, and neighbors to look out for vulnerable older adults.
If you suspect someone is a victim of elder abuse, call the NYS Adult Protective Services Helpline at 1-844-697-3505 (8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday).
For emergencies that require immediate attention, call 9-1-1.
Know It When You See It
Types of Elder Abuse
Physical abuse
Emotional abuse
Sexual abuse
Financial exploitation
Neglect (including self-neglect)
Signs of Elder Abuse
Bruises, burns, scars, poor hygiene.
Changes in banking/spending.
Depression, confusion, acting withdrawn.
Isolation from friends, family.
Seeming underfed, dehydrated, overmedicated, under-medicated.
Lack of needed medical care.
Who is at risk of Elder Abuse?
Abuse can happen to any older person — at home, at a relative’s home, or in an eldercare facility.
Elder abuse is found in all communities.
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other neuro-cognitive impairments are at a greater risk.
Informal caregivers and family/friends are most often the perpetrators.
Additional Resources
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24 Hour New York State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-942-6906 (711 for deaf...
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Scams
Be Scam Smart: Watch our video series
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), adults over age 60 in 2023 lost more than $3.4 billion as a result of scams, an almost 11 percent increase in reported losses from 2022. Additionally, there was also a 14 percent increase in complaints filed with IC3. Frauds and scams will continue to evolve, but many characteristics of these schemes remain the same even as new trends develop. Watch our video series on the YouTube playlist here. Read our guide 'Don't Get Scammed': A Comprehensive Guide for Avoiding Fraud and Theft.
Program Information and Resources for Professionals
Learn more about some of the programs funded by NYSOFA at the community or regional levels to address elder abuse and educate the public.