What is the legal definition of elder abuse?
“Elder abuse” is defined as any of the following:
- physical injury;
- unreasonable confinement;
- unreasonable punishment;
- assault;
- a sexual offense;
- financial exploitation; or
- neglect.1
“Neglect” means that a caretaker has prevented the elder from getting the minimum care necessary to maintain his/her life or health. This could include depriving the elder of:
- food;
- shelter;
- clothing;
- supervision;
- physical or mental health care; or
- other necessary care.1
1 Iowa Code § 235F.1(5)(a)