Letter: Elder Abuse Day Reconizes Nationwide Problem
To the Editor-
Each year, hundreds of thousands of older persons are abused, neglected, and exploited. Unfortunately, no one is immune to abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
It occurs in every demographic, and can happen to anyone-a family member, a neighbor, even you. Yes, it is estimated that only about one in five of those
incidents are ever discovered.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect in older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. On June 15th, please consider visiting an older person at a hospital, nursing home or assisted living facility.
Whether your effort is great or small, once a year or throughout, all of these efforts empower us to make long-lasting differences in the lives of vulnerable elders. To report an incident in Portage County, call 715-345-5350.
Melissa Madlena, CSW
Adult Protective Services
Portage County Health & Human Services