JUNE IS NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH:
Join Someplace Safe in Keeping Older Adults Safe as we Recognize
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th
Observed annually in June, National Safety Month focuses on reducing the leading causes of safety issues both in our homes and in our communities. This year, during National Safety Month, and in honor of World Elder Abuse Day, we focus on the safety of older adults, as well as the issue of Elder Abuse.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated annually in America and around the world on June 15th. Through WEAAD, awareness is raised regarding the millions of older adults who experience elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. In fact, approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse, with estimates ranging as high as 5 million elders abused each year.
There are many factors which make older adults particularly vulnerable to abuse. Social isolation, health problems, mental and cognitive impairment, disabilities, a lack of financial independence, and the dependence on others for transportation, errands, tasks and basic needs all increase older adult vulnerability. Perpetrators of elder abuse vary great, but most commonly are the elder’s children or grandchildren, other close family members, or spouses – as well as caregivers, or staff at nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other residential facilities. Elder abuse varies greatly in type and severity and may include any of the following:
Considering this, there are many warning signs of elder abuse that family members, caregivers, and community members may look for. Bruises, pressure marks, broken bones, abrasions, burns, bedsores, poor hygiene or unusual weight loss may indicate signs of physical abuse, neglect, or mistreatment. An unexplained withdrawal from normal activities, unusual depression, strained or tense relationships, and frequent arguments with caregivers may demonstrate the presence of emotional abuse. Finally, a sudden or drastic change in financials situations may indicate the financial abuse.
The good news is that there are a variety of ways older adults, and the caretakers/family/friends of older adults, may prevent abuse and stay safe. Consider the following tips:
By taking these steps, and working together with older adults, we can increase safety, prevent elder abuse, and raise awareness in our communities. If you or someone you know has been victimized by elder abuse, please contact your local law enforcement agency, social service agency, or Someplace Safe.
For more information on National Safety month visit: https://www.nsc.org/work-safety/get-involved/national-safety-month.
For more information and resources on elder abuse visit: https://www.ncoa.org/.
For more safety tips for older adults visit: https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/home-safety-tips-older-adultsShare this page
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