What Kind of Help Can the Law Provide?
There are many protections for victims of elder abuse. These include things like:
- Requiring the abuser move out of the house under certain circumstances.
- Requiring the abuser provide alternative housing for the victim.
- Restraining orders stopping the abuser from contacting or harassing the victim or the victim's family members.
- Restraining the abuser from controlling, using, or transferring any financial resources belonging to the victim.
- Requiring the abuser follow the instructions of the victim’s guardian, conservator, or attorney-in-fact.
For a complete list of protections available to victims of elder abuse, see Iowa Code section 235F.6.
Where can I get more information?
- Iowa Legal Aid is a non-profit agency that provides legal assistance to low-income and vulnerable Iowans. Information can be found on the Iowa Legal Aid Website and they can be reached by phone at 800-532-1503 or, for Iowans 60 or older, 800-992-8161.
- Find contact information for an advocate, sometimes called an elder rights specialist, in your local area agency on aging (AAA) at LifelongLinks. They are not attorneys, but these advocates can talk with you about the law and help you gather information and fill out forms. They can also talk with you about available resources and assistance.
- The Iowa Victim Service Call Center helps victims and survivors of crime in Iowa. The Call Center can provide support and can connect you with a local domestic violence or sexual assault advocate. They are not attorneys, but these advocates can help you gather information and fill out forms. They can be reached by phone 24/7 at 800-770-1650 or by texting IowaHelp to 20121.