PA Stops Tracking Elder Abuse Deaths Despite Rising Numbers

July 20, 2025

In spring 2025, the media reported that Pennsylvania had ceased collecting and analyzing information on elder abuse and neglect resulting in death. This failure to track deaths is particularly troubling, since the death rates following abuse complaints are rising sharply in Pennsylvania. From 2017 to 2022, the state saw a tenfold increase in elder abuse deaths. Tracking data of this type allows Pennsylvanians to see how delays or investigative failures might be contributing to elder abuse deaths.

If you or your family is facing elder abuse, contact the LLF Law Firm immediately. The LLF Law Firm Family Law Team understands Pennsylvania law of elder abuse and the types of protection available to prevent and address it. We will work to provide fast legal protection and explore long-term solutions. Call the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form.

Elder Abuse Law in Pennsylvania

The Older Adults Protective Services Act (OAPSA) defines elder abuse as any act or failure to act by a caregiver or other responsible individual that results in injury, exploitation, or a decline in the health of an older adult. Elder abuse falls into several general types:

  • Physical Abuse, including assaults, inappropriate restraints or medication, or other infliction of injury or pain.
  • Psychological Abuse, including yelling, threats, isolation, or other mistreatment.
  • Sexual Abuse, or any non-consensual sexual contact.
  • Financial Abuse, or the improper or illegal use of an elder adult’s financial assets.
  • Caregiver Neglect, or the denial of basic needs such as food, hygiene, safety, or medical care.

Anyone who suspects elder abuse in Pennsylvania can contact the Area Agency on Aging (AAA), law enforcement, or the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Timely reporting is essential to stopping elder abuse. Family members and loved ones may also take civil action to protect older adults from abuse.

How a Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order Can Help

If you suspect elder abuse, a Protection from Abuse (PFA) Order can provide protection and security to the victim. It can give clear legal boundaries between the elder adult and the abuser. This may involve an order for the abuser to leave a residence or to cease contact or financial exploitation. Family members may seek an order of this type on behalf of the elder, particularly if they have power of attorney. If the elder adult is resistant, discuss the matter with our Family Law Team. We can help explore options to protect your elder family members and their resources.

The Lento Law Firm Family Law Team has a deep understanding of Pennsylvania law and elder abuse issues. We can assist you in obtaining legal protections for your loved one, providing peace of mind to your family. We are with you every step of the way, ensuring that you take the necessary actions to secure the protections you need. Call us today at 888-535-3686 or fill out our confidential online form, and we will contact you.

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