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Elder Abuse: A Growing Yet Invisible New York Epidemic

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Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.

10b9db026d89119e951a851045ac17eee7784f79

Written/Reviewed By:

Barry S. Kantrowitz, Esq.

Last Updated: Jul 24, 2026

Read Time: 2 mins

Elderly abuse is a nearly invisible epidemic destroying the lives and livelihoods of aging men and women. As the population of older Americans continues to explode, advocates for the elderly fear the invisible epidemic will also expand exponentially.

In the past three decades, the number of men and women living to 90 years old and beyond has tripled. According to the Census Bureau, that number is projected to quadruple by the year 2050.

The elderly are prime targets for unscrupulous family, friends and caretakers. In addition, nursing home abuse may also become a concern as an elderly parent or relative can no longer care for himself or herself.

Recognizing and Reporting Elderly Abuse

When older men and women are exploited physically or emotionally, it is considered elder abuse. Tragically, most cases of mistreatment, neglect and abuse often go unnoticed and unreported. In fact, experts estimate that for every case of elderly abuse reported, five go unreported.

Because elder abuse is often simple to disguise or dismiss, and many elderly adults are ashamed to admit the abuse, it is important for loved ones to watch for and to recognize signs of trouble.

These can include:

Bruises and broken bones
Malnourishment or dehydration
Soiled bedding/clothing and poor hygiene
Bedsores and pressure sores
Complaints of poor treatment
Changes in personality
Agitation, withdrawal or fear
Frequent crying

If these signs are present and abuse is suspected, it is important to report concerns to a medical professional, social worker and/or Adult Protective Services (APS). It may also be helpful to call an elder abuse hotline or helpline and to speak with a personal injury attorney to learn what options are available.

Educating Communities

In 2010, the Elder Justice Act was passed as part of President Barack Obama’s health care reform bill. Touted as the most comprehensive federal legislation ever to combat the abuse, neglect and exploitation of the elderly, it has not lived up to expectations.

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   LWelsh 
 0 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Clever and efficient.
  
 
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   Kenny Perlow 
 21 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. KGG Law, and Barry Kantrowitz in particular, set the bar high for what a thorough, practical, strategic, compassionate and smart lawyer can be. Everything about Barry's advice and representation was exemplary and the stress mitigation that resulted was invaluable. On top of that, the ultimate result Barry achieved was beyond what was reasonable to expect and we are forever grateful. Often, people say that you hire a lawyer to prevent a problem. Sometimes, unfortunately, you need an attorney to solve a problem and I could not recommend Barry and his firm any more highly in that regard.
  
 
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   Aliza Ali 
 85 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad had a great experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer our questions. They kept us informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a very stressful situation much easier to handle. We truly appreciated their dedication, honesty, and hard work. Thanks to their support, my dad felt confident every step of the way. We are very grateful for everything they did and would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for reliable legal representation.
  
 
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   Jana Montero 
 88 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience working with Sam Smith. He was very responsive, thorough, and easy to work with from start to finish. He walked me through everything clearly and made what started as a very stressful situation for me into something completely manageable. I would not hesitate to recommend him and the firm!
  
 
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   Mike Sakmann 
 94 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I sought legal advice regarding an employment matter and had an excellent experience working with Sam Smith, Esq. at KGG Law. Sam was thorough, attentive, and took the time to listen carefully to my concerns before providing clear, thoughtful guidance. I appreciated the professionalism and care shown throughout the process, and I would confidently recommend KGG Law to anyone in need of legal assistance.
  
 
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   Liz Hecker 
 100 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't say enough about this firm. They manage to comfort you during the whole legal process while staying professional and doing what is right. I would recommend them to anyone and also hire them again if I need legal help.
  
 
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   Brandy Miller 
 123 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate is the best. She helped me very quickly, and was very attentive with all of my needs. So thankful for her
  
 
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   Mike Greenspan 
 136 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate Carballo is a dedicated, passionate, and creative attorney whom I had the pleasure to lecture with at a state trial lawyer's conference. Kate's lecture demonstrated how she uses her innovative and "out-of-the-box thinking" to achieve outstanding results for her injured clients. That Kate is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a civil trial attorney is a testament to her skills, experience and commitment to excellence.
  
 
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   Jonathan Sampson 
 143 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Was referred to KGG law by a friend and could not have asked for better legal representation. They walked me through every step of the process after my accident and began every call with “ how are you feeling” which was just one example of how much they care about their clients. They handled my case very efficiently, professionally and courteously. My attorney Kate Carballo was a rock star! So clearly experienced, she consistently made me feel at ease with the process. Highly recommend
  
 
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   Vinnie Kung 
 146 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with the team at KGG Law. While it was a traumatic time for our family, they made it very easy for us and explained all of our options. They even performed due diligence to make sure that after our settlement, there would be no further issues which I think is even more important than the settlement itself. Thank you!

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Elder Abuse: A Growing Yet Invisible New York Epidemic

Recognizing and Reporting Elderly Abuse

Educating Communities

Why Trust Us?

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