The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners declared June 15 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, joining communities around to globe recognize the pressing human rights issue.
In Multnomah County, Adult Protective Services handled 8,100 reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation in 2010. Anyone can report abuse, neglect, or other harm being done to older adults or people with disabilities by calling the 24-hour Adult Protective Services Helpline at 503-988-3646.
Signs of elder abuse include marks and bruises; social withdrawal; depression; anxiety; fear of family members, friends or caregivers; and sudden changes in seniors’ finances. For more signs of abuse, see Warning Signs of Abuse or Neglect from Aging and Disability Services.
“Elder abuse is a serious issue that affects the physical, mental and financial health of many senior citizens,” said Commissionser Judy Shiprack, who sponsored the proclamation with Commissioner Loretta Smith. “We all need to know what signs to look for and where to get help when we see seniors in our community suffering.”
Although data varies widely, the National Center on Elder Abuse estimates that between one and two million Americans age 65 or older have been abused a by a caregiver. Data suggest that for every case of elder abuse or neglect brought to authorities, five cases go unreported.
Perpetrators of elder abuse are usually members of the victim’s family. Victims of elder abuse tend to be older, frail and dependent on their abusers for life-sustaining care.
It is estimated that U.S. seniors lose at least $2.6 billion each year to financial abuse. In Fiscal Year 2010, the Financial Abuse Specialist Team was able to recoup more than $1.6 million in money and services for seniors in Multnomah County.
“There is also a ripple effect of financial abuse – if a senior loses her retirement nest egg, she may have no way of affording housing, food, or prescription drugs,” explained Commissioner Smith. “We need to continue to protect our seniors and have others treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
For more information about elder abuse or county services for seniors, visit the Aging and Disability Services website.
Watch the Multnomah County's World Elder Abuse Day video from 2010