Crimes Against the Elderly Growing; Most Committed by Family Members, Says Sam Houston State University Professor Victoria Titterington

HUNTSVILLE, TX--(Marketwire - June 08, 2010) -

"We know the actual number of cases is in the millions, far more than are actually reported," said Sam Houston State University criminal justice professor Victoria Titterington.

Crimes include scams, burglary, theft, assault, neglect, mental abuse, even homicide, she said.

The United States Senate Special Committee on Aging estimates there are actually as many as five million victims of elderly abuse every year, many of them in Texas because it has the fourth largest population of elderly adults, behind California, Florida, and New York.

"Elders are especially vulnerable to financial exploitation," she said. "As a group they have more assets than younger people."

Senior citizens who are socially isolated also tend to be more susceptible to scams or fraudulent activities because of their need for attention or contact with others.

"This generation of elders tends to be more trusting of others," said Titterington.

"Many are too embarrassed to tell anyone they've been conned, fearful that if their family realizes what has happened they might be institutionalized," said Titterington.

The motives for financial exploitation vary.

"Some exploit their parents financially because they feel it is owed to them after caring for their parents," said Titterington.

The problem is likely to get worse.

"People of the age 60 or older are the fastest growing segment of the population, in Texas and nationally. The number of older Americans is expected to more than double in the next 30 years," she said.

The National Center on Elder Abuse recommends reporting by friends, relatives or neighbors who witness or suspect abuse.

"Texas is among a few states whose statutes mandate that anyone, not just health or social service professionals, who suspect elder abuse can report it," said Titterington.

To report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation in Texas, call 1.800.252.5400.