June is Elder Abuse Awareness month! Abuse can happen to anyone — no matter the person's age, sex, race, religion, or ethnic or cultural background. Each year, hundreds of thousands of adults over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited-- this is called elder abuse. Elder abuse comes in various forms, including, but not limited to:
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Physical abuse: This involves using physical force that causes illness or injury, such as restraining an older adult against their will.
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Emotional or psychological abuse: This type of abuse includes insults, threats, and other behaviors that cause mental pain. It can also involve isolating the individual from other people.
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Neglect and abandonment: This occurs when caregivers fail to provide basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, hygiene, and medical care.
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Financial exploitation: Some individuals take advantage of older adults by stealing from their bank accounts, forging their signatures, or misusing their retirement benefits. Fraud and improper use of guardianship or power of attorney also fall into this category.
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Sexual abuse: This type of abuse happens when seniors are subjected to forced or unwanted sexual contact.
You might think that elder abuse is only perpetrated by strangers, like random robbers or scam callers. The reality is, elder mistreatment can often occur at the hands of someone the senior trusts—it could be a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or even a financial advisor.
It's important to recognize that elder abuse can happen to seniors of all backgrounds, regardless of their socioeconomic status or health condition. Whether they're living at home, in a care facility, or with a family member, they are still vulnerable to mistreatment.
We play a crucial role in protecting our elderly loved ones from abuse. Let's work together to ensure that our seniors receive the respect, care, and support they deserve.
You have support if you suspect a senior is being taken advantage of. Our Care Management team includes elder abuse specialists who can help with every type of abuse.
Click to learn more about how Meals on Wheels Diablo Region helps prevent elder abuse: https://www.mowdiabloregion.org/elder-abuse-prevention
Don’t let abuse go unreported! If you or a loved one needs support, please call us at 925.937.8311 or email info@mowdr.org. We help quickly and discreetly.
