New Data Ranks Texas Among Top States for Reports of Elder Abuse

Key Information

• Source: Dallas Express
• Published Date: December 10, 2024
• Author: Joe Edwards

Overview

• Texas is ranked among the top three states in the U.S. for the highest rates of elder abuse.
• Data collected by the National Adult Maltreatment Reporting System (NAMRS) between 2016 and 2022.
• The states with the most incident reports are Texas, Missouri, and Washington.

Statistics

• Texas reports an average of 127,724 elder maltreatment cases annually.
• This equates to 3,115 cases per 100,000 elderly residents.

Types of Elder Abuse

• Self-Neglect is the most reported issue:
  • 73,139 cases annually in Texas.
  • Self-neglect occurs when an individual is unable to perform basic self-care.
  • Often linked to a lack of resources or intervention.

National Context

• Self-neglect is a common issue nationally, with over a quarter million annual reports in 37 states.
• Washington leads with 3,597 reports per 100,000 elderly, highlighting financial exploitation as prevalent.
• Missouri records 3,309 reports per 100,000 elderly residents.

Broader Implications

• The data highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing elder abuse in the U.S.
• The senior population in states like Texas is growing, increasing the need for elder care resources.

Other States Ranked in Top 10

• Other states include Maine, Oregon, Kansas, Alaska, Montana, Oklahoma, and Virginia.
• These states report 2,000 to 3,000 cases per 100,000 elderly residents annually.

Comments from Experts

• Attorney Steven Gruber underscores the importance of addressing elder maltreatment due to the vulnerable condition of many seniors in nursing homes.
• Emphasizes the criticality of providing adequate care as more Americans live longer lives.

Additional Resources

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