As more of our daily lives move online, with telehealth appointments, online shopping, and more, older adults face greater risks of abuse, especially when they are isolated. Abuse can take many forms, including physical harm, neglect, manipulation, and financial exploitation. Without regular face-to-face interactions, it can be harder for others to notice the warning signs.
It’s important for everyone to recognize symptoms of Elder Abuse and to know what resources and protections are available to protect you or your loved ones.
When meeting in person, it’s easier to see things like unexplained bruises, weight loss, or poor hygiene. It’s also easier to sense when someone seems anxious or uncomfortable. But in a remote world, these signs can be harder to detect. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to other warning signals, such as:
- A third party answering your phone and preventing you from speaking freely.
- Someone coaching you on what to say during a phone call.
- Suddenly being cut off from contact, even after reaching out for help.
- Feeling pressured or controlled by another person, even in financial or legal matters.
What You Can Do
If you are experiencing abuse, know that you have options. One of the strongest legal protections available is an Elder Abuse Restraining Order (EARO). This court order can order the abuser to stop contacting you, coming near you, or continuing harmful behavior, or owning or possessing a gun, firearm, or ammunition.
In California, civil Elder Abuse is defined as physical abuse, neglect, isolation, abandonment, abduction, or other treatment which results in physical harm, pain, or mental suffering; financial abuse; or deprivation by a care custodian of goods or services that are necessary to avoid physical harm or mental suffering. If you are 65 or older (or a dependent adult between 18-64), you have the right to seek protection under the law. You can file an EARO on your own, or someone you trust — such as a legal representative or family member — can file on your behalf.
How It Works
- You (or someone on your behalf) files a petition with the court.
- You can also request a temporary restraining order for immediate protection.
- A judge will review your request and decide whether to grant it.
- If approved, the temporary order stays in effect until a hearing (usually within 21 days).
- At the hearing, the judge may grant a longer-lasting restraining order, up to five years.
- If granted, the order can be renewed without proof of further abuse, ensuring continued protection.
Abuse can be frightening and overwhelming, but help is available. Legal aid organizations can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure your rights are protected. If you or someone you know is in danger, reach out for support.
No one should suffer in silence.