Care Connection observes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Care Connection Regional Ombudsman Director Kathy Ray-Smith will present a special virtual session at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 12, to focus on elder abuse awareness and prevention.

The Zoom online presentation will kick off Care Connection for Aging Services’ observations of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is June 15.

The presentation will focus on steps that elders and their loved ones can take to prevent abuse.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made frail and isolated adults ever more vulnerable. Recent reports ranging from financial scams to family violence have prompted public warnings about elder abuse from the Federal Trade Commission, the Missouri Senior Medicare Patrol, and the American Bar Association.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act by a caregiver or another person in a trusted relationship that harms an older adult or puts an older adult at risk of harm.

Adult abuse can include physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, bullying or any combination of these.

Ray-Smith said that elder abuse is not a popular topic, but awareness of it is essential. Ten percent of people 60 and older have experienced abuse or harm, according to the National Center on Elder Abuse.

“We must face the issue head-on and educate the public,” Ray-Smith said. “When elders are abused, they sometimes retreat from participating in their communities. This social isolation, combined with the increased isolation caused by the pandemic, makes older adults even more vulnerable.”

Family members, friends, caretakers and the general public should be on the lookout for these signs of abuse:

•Unusual changes in behavior or sleep.

•Fear or anxiety.

•Isolation from friends and family.

•Withdrawal from normal activities.

•Sadness.

•Broken bones, bruises, and welts.

•Cuts, sores, or burns.

•Torn, stained, or bloody underclothing.

•Sexually transmitted diseases without clear explanation.

•Dirtiness, poor nutrition, or dehydration.

•Unusual weight loss or dehydration.

•Missing daily living aids (glasses, walker, and medications).

•Unusual changes in a bank account or money management services.

•Unusual or quick changes in a will or other financial documents.

•Fake signatures on financial documents.

•Unpaid bills.

If you believe that you or someone else has been the victim of elder abuse, call Kathy Ray-Smith at 1-800-748-7826.