Approximately 260,000 older adults in New York are likely affected by elder abuse, but stigma leads to underreporting, according to experts.
A study by the "Under the Radar: New York State Elder Abuse Prevalence Study" found that for every one reported case of elder abuse, about 23 cases go unreported.
If your adult child were abusing you financially, emotionally or physically, what would you do?
Experts in the adult services field confirm that this study, issued in 2011, still accurately reflects the situation on Long Island.
The director of the Safe Observant Seniors program, Jeanne Cacciatore, works with clients to address elder abuse.
Author's summary: Elder abuse affects many on Long Island.