Natural helpers (i.e., family and friends) can provide emotionally sustaining help, advice in problem solving, indirect assistance such as simple availability, and advocacy. However, families which assume the role of caregivers for elderly persons require special social supports to avert the type of stressful situations which may lead to abuse. The support may take the form of information, relief from constant caregiving responsibilities, respite care, assistance with household chores, educational programs, and voluntary advisory services to families caring for high-risk elderly persons. Abuse of the elderly may be detected with the assistance of individuals who provide informal services to the elderly, e.g., cab drivers, postal carriers, doctor's office receptionists, beauticians, bus drivers, and ministers. Special education programs for these 'gatekeepers' can further detection efforts. Mutual help groups can encourage neighbors to take action when they suspect abuse, monitor situations in which abuse has already been reported, and bring people together who share common problems. Rather than resisting the efforts of these natural support systems, government and professional agencies should provide them with information, consultation services, and general support. Service providers must also be trained in detecting signs of abuse, using appropriate treatment interventions, and methods of supporting the informal networks. About 35 references are supplied.