Join the Fight for Elder Safety

Learn more about resources for elder safety and elder abuse prevention. BC-REST is a coalition working to educate and empower the community to identify and prevent elder abuse, neglect and exploitation in Baltimore County. To learn more, call 410-887-4200.

Elder Abuse

Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that endangers the wellbeing of older adults. The abuse can be committed by a family member, care provider, acquaintance or a stranger. Elder abuse is widespread. Each year, five million older Americans experience abuse, neglect or exploitation. Elder abuse often goes unrecognized and unreported. Elder abuse is a crime.

Types of Elder Abuse

  • Physical abuse—Intentional bodily harm, such as hitting, pushing or shaking.

  • Emotional abuse—Involves causing harm through verbal or behavioral means, including insults, threats, or coercive persuasion that limits a person's choices.

  • Sexual abuse—A nonconsensual sexual contact

  • Financial exploitation—The improper use of an older person’s money or assets for personal gain.

  • Neglect—The failure to provide food, clothing, shelter, care, or other basic needs.

Signs of Elder Abuse

Everyone can play a part in preventing elder abuse. Start by learning the signs. 

  • Dehydration or unusual weight loss

  • Missing or broken daily living aids (like glasses or walker)

  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts or sores

  • Unclean or hazardous living conditions, or poor hygiene

  • Unaddressed medical needs 

  • Lack of food in the home

  • Torn, stained or bloody underclothing

  • Sexually transmitted diseases without a clear explanation

  • Increased fear, anxiety or agitation

  • Isolation from friends and family

  • Unusual changes in behaviors or sleep

  • Withdrawal from normal activities

  • Fake signatures on financial documents

  • Unusual spending patterns 

  • Sudden changes in wills or other financial documents

  • Unexplained withdrawals or transfers of funds

  • Unpaid bills

Report Suspected Abuse

Reporting elder abuse may save a life. If you see something, say something. You may report anonymously.

  • Baltimore County Adult Protective Services (APS)—Contact APS to report concerns about the safety of an adult living in the community who may be experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation. Call 410-887-8463.
  • Baltimore County Long Term Care Ombudsman—Contact the Ombudsman for long term care residents who may be experiencing abuse or neglect. Call 410-887-4200.
  • 911—Call 911 if you are concerned that a person is in imminent danger or facing an emergency. 

Prevention Tips 

  • Learn the signs of elder abuse and how we can solve the issue together.
  • Reach out to and check in regularly with older adults who may be experiencing health issues, or who have few family or friends.
  • Provide respite breaks for family members caring for older adults.
  • Learn where to report any elder abuse concerns.

Tips for Older Adults 

  • Maintain relationships with trusted family and friends.
  • Talk to your doctor or another medical professional if you are experiencing abuse.
  • Check your financial statements each month for any suspicious activity.
  • Never send money to someone you do not know personally.
  • Never give your credit card, banking, Social Security, Medicare, or other personal information over the phone or online, unless it is with a trusted and verified source.
  • Stay educated on the latest scams and frauds.

BC-REST Coalition Members

  • Baltimore County Department of Aging
  • Baltimore County Department of Health
  • Baltimore County Department of Social Services
  • Baltimore County Police Department
  • Baltimore County Public Library
  • CHANA Baltimore
  • Maryland Legal Aid