Abuse can happen in many places, including an older adult’s home, a family member's house, or a residential setting such as assisted living or foster care home. These types of mistreatment can be by family members, strangers, health care providers, caregivers or friends.
Risk factors for abuse may include:
- Older age
- Illness
- Dependency on others
- Social isolation
- Substance use/abuse
Elder abuse may take many forms, including:
- Theft or fraud
- Misuse of financial resources
- Neglect, such as failing to provide for basic needs
- Self-neglect, including the inability to make safe decisions
- Yelling insults or threats
- Physical or sexual abuse, including inappropriate restraints
- Withholding food or medication
- Abandonment
- Health care fraud by medical staff
For more information about the warning signs of elder abuse and additional resources, get the facts on elder abuse.
| What is happening? | Who do I call? |
|---|---|
| Elder abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation in Washington County | Adult Protective Services at 971-673-5200 |
| Elder abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation anywhere in Oregon | Statewide Reporting Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233) |
| A crime has been committed | Call 911 or your local law enforcement agency |
| Someone is being hurt right now or is in danger | Call 911 immediately |
Victims of abuse may be reluctant to seek help or tell anyone about their situation for many reasons. Caller’s names are kept confidential and are only released by court order. You can also report abuse anonymously.
If you would like information about any substantiated abuse or neglect allegations at a specific long-term care facility, see the Licensed Long Term Care Settings facility search tool and search by name or facility type and location. After clicking on the facility name, choose the "Violations" tab.
The Elder Safe program in Washington County helps victims age 65+ after a crime is reported. Advocates provide emotional support and information relating to their case and the criminal justice system. This can also include court advocacy, filling out forms, or other types of support. For more information contact 503-846-6048.