The report describes the nature of elder abuse and provides numerous examples of physical, financial, psychological, and sexual abuse of the elderly by their family members and caretakers; it concludes that elder abuse is a widespread and serious problem in the United States. Current theories on the causes of elder abuse are explored, the experiences of the States with this problem are outlined, and State statutory approaches are compared. An exploration of Federal involvement concludes that the Federal Government can help the States by enacting H.R. 769, The Prevention, Identification and Treatment of Elder Abuse Act of 1981. This bill would provide for the financial assistance for programs of prevention, identification, and treatment of elder abuse and neglect and exploitation, and establish a national center for elder abuse with the task of developing a model State elder abuse statute. It would also provide Federal funds to States with mandatory reporting laws. In addition, Congress may wish to amend title XX, medicare, medicaid, and supplemental security income to provide for more social services to families who are caring for older persons. Appended materials include survey instruments, newspaper articles, a directory of State offices responsible for adult protective services, and the text of H.R. 769. (Author abstract modified)