June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Elder abuse refers to intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm to an older person. Elder abuse takes many forms including neglect or isolation, physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse and exploitation, and emotional or psychological abuse (including verbal abuse and threats). The costs of elder abuse are high; losses can be tangible (such as homes and life savings) and intangible (such as dignity, independence, and possibly their lives). For society, elder abuse is both an economic and social issue that creates health care and legal costs, which are often shouldered by public programs like Medicare and Medicaid, and isolates people from their communities.

For more information you can visit the Mercer County Office on Aging