Which of the following best defines elder abuse?

The definition of elder abuse centers around the intentional or negligent actions that result in harm to older adults. This encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviors, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse, as well as neglect.

When understanding elder abuse, it is important to recognize that the intent behind the actions is a key element. This definition includes not just blatant acts of aggression but also negligent behavior, where a caregiver fails to provide necessary care and support, thereby causing harm. The comprehensive nature of this definition helps to capture various forms it can take, making it a crucial aspect of Adult Protective Services work.

The other options do not fully encapsulate the scope of elder abuse. For example, accidental harm caused by caregivers may not involve intention, which is critical in defining abuse. General neglect of housing conditions represents one facet of neglect but is not as encompassing of the various forms of abuse an individual might experience. Lastly, the mistreatment of elderly individuals by peers does not provide a complete picture of elder abuse, as it does not address the broader context of caregiving environments where abuse often occurs.