Adult maltreatment refers to any physical, emotional, or sexual harm — or intent to harm — upon a vulnerable adult. There are three common types of maltreatment: abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
Abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, the use of restraints, involuntary seclusion, or punishment. Neglect is the failure to provide food, shelter, clothing, health care, or supervision necessary to maintain a person’s health, safety, or comfort. Neglect may occur because a caregiver or service provider fails to meet the vulnerable adult’s needs, or because the adult cannot meet their own needs. Financial exploitation involves theft or withholding of money or property, or using a vulnerable adult’s money or property for purposes that do not benefit them.
Warning signs of maltreatment can range from obvious to subtle and vary by individual. Common signs include:
- Emotional agitation — being visibly upset or distressed
- Extreme withdrawal — non‑communicative or non‑responsive behavior
- Unusual behaviors — such as biting or rocking
- Personality changes — including excessive apologizing
- Changes in sleep or eating
- Reports of verbal or emotional mistreatment
If you suspect someone is experiencing maltreatment, reporting it to the appropriate agencies is the best course of action — especially if you are a mandated reporter. Law enforcement, educators, doctors, nurses, social workers, and other licensed professionals are legally required to report suspected abuse or neglect. After a report is submitted, the lead agency determines whether further investigation is needed.