The trial of Anthony Marshall, the son of the late socialite and philanthropist Brooke Astor, is wrapping up in New York. While it is not clear yet what the verdict will be, this event has brought elder abuse into the spotlight. the New York Times blog “The New Old Age” notes:

‘Meryl Gordon, author of “Mrs. Astor Regrets,” has been among those watching the courtroom drama unfold. “It has been a fascinating spectacle,” Ms. Gordon said via e-mail. “A graduate seminar in the ravages of Alzheimer’s, a sad tale of mother-son family dysfunction, a window into the world of New York society.” ‘

The Nova Scotia Department of Seniors has some very good information about what elder  abuse is and highlights the signs of physical, sexual, social, emotional and financial abuse, as well as neglect, on their site.

The government of Canada also launched an elder abuse awareness campaign this year, and has many excellent resources at their site.