Elderly Woman Squeezed, Poked in Eyes, Police Say

A Falls Township woman was arraigned and jailed Tuesday after she allegedly assaulted an elderly family member by squeezing her and poking her in the eyes so hard that the victim was left bruised and swollen, according to a PhillyBurbs report.

Patricia Ann Fitzgerald, 49, was charged in the alleged assault that happened on July 49.

Elder abuse is a growing problem and perpetrators are often family members, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse, which has a website with more information and resources.

Victims of elder abuse are urged to tell a doctor, friend, or a family member they trust, or call the Adult Protective Services program in their area.