The elderly in Connecticut and around the country are among the most vulnerable groups in society. Careful elder care planning can eliminate much of the uncertainty for this population, but some older people have not been so fortunate. Many seniors find themselves the victims of abuse, be it financial, physical or emotional. To combat the problem of elder abuse, a handful of elder abuse shelters have popped up around the country.

One reason for a perceived increase in elder abuse is simply the growing number of older people in the country. Already, the number of Americans who live to be at least 90 years old has tripled in the last three decades, and that number is expected to quadruple again by the middle of the century, thanks to ever-improving medical and preventative care.

As one expert says, these and other factors are creating something of a perfect storm for elder abuse: as people live longer and the economic climate is poor, they often must live with their children or grandchildren. Also, incidences of Alzheimer's disease and dementia among the elderly population are at unprecedented high levels. This might provide an opportunity for less-than virtuous caregivers to take advantage of the elderly. In fact, one expert estimates that 10 percent of seniors are victims of elder abuse at some point in their lifetimes.

One of the best ways to prevent these abusive situations from occurring is to have a sound, enforceable care plan in place. An attorney with experience in elder care planning can be an invaluable resource to ensure that the wishes of the elderly are carried out and their interests are protected.

Source: USA Today, "As USA grays, elder abuse risk and need for shelters grow," Haya El Nasser, Jan. 10, 2012