Elder Abuse on Long Island: How It Happens and What to Do
In New York, about 260,000 older adults suffer from physical, sexual, financial, or psychological abuse annually. However, stigma leads to significant underreporting, with experts estimating that for every reported case, roughly 23 remain unreported.
Insights from Experts
Jeanne Cacciatore, director of the Safe Observant Seniors ("SOS") program at the Family & Children’s Association in Garden City, regularly meets with clients affected by elder abuse.
Prevalence Study Findings
The 2011 study titled Under the Radar: New York State Elder Abuse Prevalence Study remains the latest comprehensive research on this issue. A spokesperson for the state Office for the Aging confirmed it is still considered the most definitive source on elder abuse prevalence in the state.
“In New York State, for every one reported case of elder abuse, about 23 typically go unreported.”
Impact on Long Island
Those working in adult services observe that the underreporting patterns from the study continue to reflect the reality on Long Island, where many cases of elder abuse remain hidden.
What to Do if You Suspect Abuse
- Recognize signs of financial, emotional, or physical abuse.
- Seek support from local programs such as the SOS program.
- Report suspected abuse to authorities or elder care organizations.
Author’s summary: Elder abuse affects hundreds of thousands in New York, yet stigma and underreporting keep many cases hidden, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and intervention.