World Elder Abuse Awareness Day has been recognized on June 15 by the United Nations General Assembly since 2011. It was adopted in Missouri by Gov. Mike Parson in 2021.
“On this day each year, the world recognizes the abuse and suffering that some older adults face,” University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health specialist Debbie Bennett said.
Elder abuse is a worldwide problem that hits close to home, she said. The state of Missouri receives 116 elder abuse reports every day, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. For every case that is reported, as many as 23 cases may go unreported.
“Elder abuse can take many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, financial, neglect, abandonment, and even self-neglect,” Bennett said. In almost 60% of elder abuse and neglect incidents nationally, the person who commits the abuse is a family member such as a spouse or adult child.
Be on the lookout for signs of abuse in the older adults you interact with. Signs of abuse include appearing depressed, confused or withdrawn; being isolated from friends and family; having unexplained bruises, burns or scars; being dirty, underfed, dehydrated, over- or under-medicated or not receiving care for medical issues; having bedsores or other preventable conditions; and making recent changes in banking or spending patterns.
There are other ways to help, Bennett said.
“Check on loved ones, friends and neighbors. Support agencies that provide services to older adults. Distribute materials in your workplace and community that spread awareness,” she said.
Most importantly, if you suspect abuse, neglect, bullying or financial exploitation of an older adult, call the DHSS hotline at (800) 392-0210. The hotline is available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If the report is not an emergency, you can also submit your report online at https://health.mo.gov/safety/abuse. This site also has links to materials to help spread awareness.
Learn more about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day at www.WorldElderAbuseAwareness.com.
