Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. Elder abuse occurs when an older adult is knowingly mistreated in such a way that their safety is at risk. “Elder abuse” is a broad term that covers a range of kinds of abuse, so let’s take a closer look at the different types and how they’re generally defined.

Elder abuse cases are growing across the country.  This elder abuse can take many forms, ranging from physical abuse and sexual abuse to psychological abuse. There are currently 1.9 million Virginians aged 60 or older, a number that will increase to 2.2 million in 2030. Virginia Adult Protective Services received over 39,000 reports of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation during fiscal year 2021, which was a five percent increase from the previous year. During fiscal year 2020, of all the reports of adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation received through Adult Protective Services, 73 percent were persons aged 60 years and older. 

Here are six local resources in Richmond, Virginia, to report elder abuse:

1. Adult Protective Services (APS) – City of Richmond – APS is a government agency dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable adults, including the elderly, from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. They investigate reports of elder abuse, provide intervention services, and coordinate with other agencies for protection and support.
   Phone number: 804-646-7405
   
2. Senior Connections – The Capital Area Agency on Aging – Senior Connections is a nonprofit organization focused on improving the quality of life for older adults and their caregivers in the Richmond area. They offer various services, including information and referrals for elder abuse reporting, support groups, counseling, and legal assistance.
   Phone number: 804-343-3000
   
3. Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) – DARS provides resources and support for seniors and individuals with disabilities to enhance their independence and well-being. They have a division specifically dedicated to Adult Protective Services, which investigates reports of elder abuse, provides protective services, and offers community education and prevention programs.
   Phone number: 800-552-5019
   
4. Richmond City Department of Social Services – Adult Services Division – Description: This division offers protective services, assessment, and case management for elderly and disabled adults to ensure their safety and well-being.
   Phone: (804) 646-7405
   
5. Adult Protective Services – Henrico County Department of Social Services – Henrico County’s APS provides investigations and protective services for adults who are being abused, neglected, or exploited, ensuring their safety and rights.
   Phone: (804) 501-7346
   
6. Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging – The Ombudsman Program advocates for residents in long-term care facilities, addressing complaints and issues related to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
   Phone: (804) 343-3000

These resources collaborate to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly individuals in Richmond, Virginia, offering support, intervention, and advocacy against elder abuse.