The aim of this study is to provide insight into the issue of violence against the elderly and to highlight the causes and forms of abuse and neglect and the factors that contribute to this, all that with the intention of raising awareness of the importance of prevention. Although more and more attention is paid to this problem due to a large number of elderly people, the issue of abuse and neglect of the elderly in Croatia is still insufficiently researched. Elder abuse is any type of behavior in a relationship of trust, whether intentionally or unintentionally, that has an adverse effect on them. There are certain theories that explain the causes of violence against the elderly, as well as the risk factors for its occurrence. According to the place of abuse, it can occur within the family, in institutions, or in society, while according to the manner of violent behavior it is divided into physical, emotional, sexual, financial abuse, and neglect - failure to provide basic living conditions and necessary care. The study is divided into five basic chapters, in which the basic concepts are defined and theoretical explanations, risk factors for violence and protection factors, forms of elder abuse and neglect, as well as its prevention are presented. These chapters also present the results of some important researches, but due to their deficiency, this social phenomenon should capture the attention of researchers and the general public.