This briefing by the Congressional Select Committee on Aging was designed to gather information on the physical and psychological abuse of the elderly. A number of witness reports are included, testifying to the seriousness and extent of the problem of elder abuse. It is pointed out that many victims refuse to admit abuse; public discussions of elder abuse may encourage victims to seek aid. Actual cases of abuse are presented with the difficulties faced by agencies in dealing with them. Witnesses also discuss social work, legal and ethical issues involved. The incidence and nature of elder abuse are described along with characteristics of the abused elder and potential causes of abuse. Appendices include a survey of professionals and paraprofessionals on elder abuse in Massachusetts, a review of recent literature on elder abuse, an analysis of protective service systems for handling abuse cases, recommendations for abuse reporting and legislation, and a testimony on Connecticut's Elderly Protective Services Law. (NRB)