Rhode Island Ranks Poorly for Protection of the Elderly, Says New Study

Rhode Island Ranks Poorly for Protection of the Elderly, Says New Study

"Elder abuse is a complex and concerning issue that hurts older Americans and costs us billions of dollars each year. It encompasses a wide range of abuses, including physical, psychological or sexual harm, plus taking advantage of seniors financially or neglecting them," writes a new study.

The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that the number of Americans who are 65+ years old will almost double from 49 million in 2016 to 95 million in 2060. 

Elderly people, who often rely on a fixed income, are particularly vulnerable to financial, emotional, and physical abuse.

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WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia based on 16 key indicators of elder-abuse protection. The data set ranges from each state's share of all elder abuse complaints to their laws concerning financial elder abuse.

To identify where elderly Americans are best protected, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia based on 16 key indicators of elder abuse protection in 3 overall categories. Our data set ranges from each state's share of all elder abuse complaints to their laws concerning financial elder abuse.

Massachusetts ranks as the second-best country for protecting older citizens from elder abuse.

But Rhode Island ranks #42.

The other four New England states rank in the top 25.

“Our nation’s elderly population is vulnerable to being hurt physically, financially, and mentally by both their families and their caregivers. Elderly people who foresee needing care in the near future or families who want to make sure their relatives receive the best treatment possible should be aware of the states with the best elder abuse protections. These states offer robust legal safeguards, plenty of organizations and volunteers dedicated to helping elderly residents avoid abuse, and high-quality nursing homes and other care facilities,” Chip Lupo, analyst for WalletHub.