Experts claim that elder abuse "is a hidden problem that may be more prevalent and under-reported than spousal abuse

That's according to this disturbing story in the Times Union (Albany, NY).

It reports on the "death by neglect" of Beth Adams, 78, by her daughter, Carol Adams, 47. Beth Adams was found inside her Albany home on January 16, 2008. She was "frightfully emaciated and dead from profound malnutrition," it is reported. Carol Adams has been charged with second-degree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide and an endangering the welfare of a vulnerable elderly person.

It's been claimed that the abuse of the elderly may be more prevalent and more under-reported than spousal abuse because victims "are fearful of retribution, in denial, embarrassed or too disabled to speak up." For every one report of elder abuse, an estimated five go unreported.