Elder abuse can be defined as an act intended to harm an older person by way of physical, emotional or psychological,  or financial distress. Elder abuse includes harmful acts committed by close family, known relatives, friends, neighbours and paid caregivers. Abuse of elders takes many different forms, some involving intimidation or threats against the elderly or physical assault, some involving neglect, and others involving financial exploitation.
According to the World Health Organization, elder abuse is a problem that exists in both developing and developed countries, yet is typically under-reported globally. Until recently, this serious social problem was hidden from the public view and considered mostly a private matter. Even today, elder abuse continues to be a taboo, mostly underestimated and ignored by societies across the world.
There is a need to create awareness about the presence of elder abuse in our society, address the problems of abuse and to make the public aware of remedial measures that could be taken by the abused. As of July 2015, it was found that over 65% of elderly in India face abuse of some sort.