What does "abuse of a disabled adult or elderly person" entail?

The concept of "abuse of a disabled adult or elderly person" primarily involves willful acts committed by a caregiver that intentionally harm or negatively affect the health and well-being of the individual in their care. This includes physical, emotional, or psychological harm caused through direct actions that disregard the individual's needs or welfare.

Understanding this definition is crucial because it emphasizes the intentional nature of the abuse, which distinguishes it from neglect or misunderstandings regarding care. Options involving unintentional actions, disagreements on care practices, or infrequent checks on well-being do not align with the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding abuse. These alternatives focus more on negligence and lack of communication rather than the deliberate harmful intent that characterizes abuse.