Abuse and Neglect

California Welfare and Institutions Code § 15610.23 defines a “Dependent adult”

(a) “Dependent adult” means any person between the ages of 18 and 64 years who resides [in California] and who has physical or mental limitations that restrict his or her ability to carry out normal activities or to protect his or her rights, including, but not limited to, persons who have physical or developmental disabilities, or whose physical or mental abilities have diminished because of age.

(b) “Dependent adult” includes any person between the ages of 18 and 64 years who is admitted as an inpatient to a 24-hour health facility, as defined in Sections 1250, 1250.2, and 1250.3 of the CA Health and Safety Code. This can include any medical office or hospital setting that provides full time 24 hour a day care.

These individuals belong to protected classes under the law due to their physical and mental disabilities.

Dependent adult abuse and neglect refers to the physical, psychological, or financial mistreatment of individuals who are considered vulnerable due to their age or disability.

This can include both intentional acts, such as physical assault or emotional abuse, as well as unintentional actions that negatively impact a person’s well-being, such as neglect or financial exploitation.

California law says dependent adult abuse is:

• Physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, abandonment, isolation, abduction, or other behavior that causes physical harm, pain, or mental suffering; or
• Deprivation by a caregiver of things or services that the dependent adult needs to avoid physical harm or mental suffering.

• Bedsores
• Confusion
• Depression
• Poor personal hygiene
• Self-destructive behavior
• Extreme withdrawal or agitation
• Being unclothed, or improperly clothed, for the weather
• Ambivalent feelings toward caregivers or family members
• Unexplained injuries or unbelievable explanations for injuries or bruises
• Loss of weight or signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, fragile skin, apathy, mental confusion)
• Lack of items needed like glasses, dentures, wheelchair, walker or cane

• Failing to provide adequate nourishment
• Reducing social interactions and contacts
• Leaving the person alone for extended periods of time
• Failing to provide adequate clothing for weather conditions
• Not meeting basic hygiene needs like bathing and teeth brushing
• Not seeking medical treatment for worsening physical or mental illnesses
• Failing to provide a safe environment that reduces the risk for falls and injuries
• Not providing necessary medications and physical therapy (medication mismanagement)
• Living in unsanitary conditions (insects, lack of utilities, faulty plumbing, faulty wiring, poor ventilation, etc.)