Mission Statement

The mission of the Bucks County Crimes Against Older Adults Task Force is to review, investigate and prosecute crimes committed against older adults in Bucks County; to prevent crimes through professional and community education; and to increase awareness of available resources for services.

Learn More About COAO

What is Elder Abuse??

Elder abuse is any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable older adult. Elder abuse can affect people of all ethnic backgrounds and social status, and does not discriminate between men and women.

The specificity of laws relating to abuse varies from state to state, but broadly defined, elder abuse may be expressed as:

Emotional Abuse

• Abandonment
• Neglect

Physical Abuse

• Sexual Abuse
• Neglect

Financial Abuse & Exploitation

• Identity Theft
• Scams

Help Veterans Protect Themselves from Scams and Financial Abuse

Recognizing Signs of Abuse

You can help stop the abuse of older adults that may be occurring. In many cases, an abused or neglected older adult is totally dependent on the abuser.

Learning common signs of abuse can help you spot abuse in your own family or community. Within this site you will find information to help you recognize the signs of elder abuse and what to do if you do suspect it.

You can help stop elder abuse. Silence isn't golden.

If you suspect elder abuse, call 1-800-490-8505