This study is based on case histories of elder abuse received by the House Subcommittee on Health and Long-Term Care from 1981 through the first half of 1985, a review of all Federal hearings on elderly abuse, questionnaire responses from all State human services departments, followup telephone interviews, a literature review, and communications with organizations and service providers which help the elderly. Abuse of elderly encompasses physical abuse, financial abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, violation of rights, and self-neglect. Such abuse is due to a number of factors, including the lack of support services for those who care for the elderly, retaliation from grown children who were abused by the now elderly parent in childhood, and resentment toward a dependent parent. Thirty-seven States and the District of Columbia have adult protective service laws which require mandatory reporting of abuse, but these laws vary widely in scope. The Federal response to elder abuse has been inadequate. The Federal Government should assist the States in their efforts to address the pervasive problem of elder abuse. Legislation might provide Federal funds to States which have mandatory reporting laws and provide immunity from prosecution for persons reporting elderly abuse. Congress should also provide for more social services to families caring for an older person. States should enact legislation that provides protections for the elderly equal to those provided children. Appended questionnaire to the States and a summary of Health and Human Services programs that address elder abuse.