Elderly abuse on the rise

At the same time, programs designed to help ease the burden - such as home care services and a training and stress management program for family caregivers - are being cut, they say. That fuels a rise in abuse allegations.

The reports cover a range of mistreatment by family members, who make up a significant portion of caregivers. In one case, a son demanded money from his 84-year-old father and when the elder refused, he shoved him, causing a serious head injury, according to the neighbor who alerted authorities.

Link:http://www.boston.com/news/health/articles/2009/02/09/mass_elder_abuse_on_rise/