Many elderly persons suffer abuse and neglect from which they cannot escape. Questions concerning the extent of elder abuse, the kinds of abuse, and underlying factors associated with elder abuse in Texas were explored in a survey of professionals most likely to encounter elder abuse in their work. Questionnaires (1,508) were mailed to agencies and individuals involved in home health services, legal and social services, health care, law enforcement, and others. To guide them in identifying local conditions, respondents were given definitions for physical abuse, exploitation, verbal/emotional abuse, active neglect, and self-neglect. Results showed that elder abuse was occurring in both rural and urban areas of Texas, and that all types of abuse were occurring. Over two-thirds of the respondents indicated that they had encountered elder abuse in their work. Many reported multiple types of abuse and some included descriptions of abused elders they had encountered. The most frequently reported causative factor behind elder abuse was long-term environmental conditions. Education about the nature and causes of elder abuse is necessary for both the general public and professionals caring for the elderly. (NRB)