"Dependent adults" are defined as "individuals who require the assistance of another person for activities of daily living." These adults include individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illnesses, both mental retardation and mental illness, or severe physical impairments that require the presence of a personal-care assistant. It is not uncommon for abused dependent adults to resist perceiving that they are being abused, since years of having their bodies managed and maintained by caregivers may have caused them to lose the sense that "my body belongs to me." In interviewing suspected abused dependent adults, it is essential to use terms they are likely to understand. This is done by having the interviewees explain in their own words their understanding of what the interviewer has asked or stated. The victim should not be abruptly removed from a familiar place without explanation or reassurance, along with a description of where they are being taken. Transportation to any new or unfamiliar place should include accompaniment by a trusted person with whom the victim is familiar. Whenever possible, it is best if the victim can remain in familiar surroundings while the perpetrator of the abuse is removed. There should be collaboration among all agencies involved in the victim's care to ensure that there is agreement and coordination in the goals and implementation of the intervention. A case history with follow-up questions is provided. 8 additional readings and resources