Learn signs of abuse or neglect: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15

Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Tim Bookwalter (Courtesy photo)

Putnam County Prosecutor Tim Bookwalter is using the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today, Wednesday, June 15, to call attention to the problem of abuse, neglect or exploitation of elders and urges citizens to learn the warning signs of mistreatment.

"Mistreatment of elders is a crime that has the potential to increase in our society, with an estimated 10,000 Americans per day turning 65," Bookwalter said. "And for every case of elder abuse of neglect reported, experts believe that as many as 23.5 cases go unreported."

Elder abuse may include neglect, financial abuse or exploitation, psychological or emotional abuse or physical or sexual abuse.

Here are some warning signs of elder abuse:

* Lack of basic hygiene, adequate food, or clean and appropriate clothing.

* Home cluttered, filthy, in disrepair, or having fire and safety hazards.

* Lack of amenities victim could afford.

* Caregiver has control of elder's money but is failing to provide for elder's needs.

* Caregiver isolates elder (doesn't let anyone into the home or speak to the elder).

* Caregiver is verbally aggressive or demeaning, controlling, overly concerned about spending money, or uncaring.

* Inadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts, sores or burns.

* Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases.

If you or someone you know is in a life-threatening situation or is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1, the state police, your local police or the county sheriff.

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