Elder Abuse is the abuse or exploitation of a person aged 60 or older by family members or caregivers, including:

• Physical abuse - hitting, pushing, biting, kicking
• Emotional abuse - harassment, threats, intimidation
• Financial exploitation - theft of monthly checks, abuse of power of attorney
• Sexual abuse - any sexual contact without consent
• Neglect - deprived of food, clothing, shelter, or medical care

In addition to family members and caregivers, others can perpetrate elder abuse in the following ways:

• Violent crimes - home invasions, robbery, assault, carjacking
• Frauds and scams - such as home repair scams, telemarketing scams, door to door sales, free prize offers, and real estate scams

The Philadelphia District Attorney's Office ELDER JUSTICE PROJECT (EJP) is a free, private, and confidential program designed to serve victims of crime who are 60 years of age or older.

EJP arranges for local prominent senior volunteer attorneys to provide support services (though not actual representation) to older victims as their cases move through the Criminal Justice System including:

• Explanation of court and police procedures
• Communication with the District Attorney's Office
• Accompaniment to court
• Assistance with victim-witness compensation and transportation needs
• Referrals to appropriate resources

Who do I call if I think I am a victim of elder abuse?
If you believe you are a crime victim, please call 911. The Philadelphia Police Department will investigate, prepare a report and, where possible, arrest the perpetrator.

What is elder abuse?
Elder abuse is the abuse or exploitation of a person aged 60 or older by family members or caregivers, which may include physical, emotional or sexual abuse and/or financial exploitation. In addition to family members and caregivers, others can perpetuate elder abuse by violence, fraud and scams.

What is the Elder Justice Project?
A support services program offered by the District Attorney's Office to serve victims of crime who are 60 years of age or older.

Whom should I contact if I would like to volunteer as a victim advocate in the Elder Justice Project?
Please call Deborah Nixon at (215) 686-9669.

Is there a fee for the services provided by the Elder Justice Project?
No. All help is free, private, and confidential.

Whom should I contact to find out more about the Elder Justice Project?
Elder Justice Project Coordinator
Philadelphia District Attorney's Office
(215) 686-9669