Saline County proclaims June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month
Saline County is doing its part in bringing awareness to an issue that the National Council on Aging has described as a quiet epidemic.
The board of commissioners, alongside the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas (known as DVACK), proclaimed June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month. A signed proclamation was presented to DVACK and the commissioners heard about what events are planned for the month ahead.
"We appreciate DVACK, you, and everyone associated with your agency," Commissioner Bob Vidricksen said to presenter Brandi Bohm Tuesday. "Thank you for all the hard work you do."
Key points from the proclamation
According to the National Council on Aging, one in 10 seniors in America experience mistreatment or abuse, including domestic and sexual violence, financial exploitation and neglect.
Only a limited number of victims are able to get the help they need due to shame, fear and other barriers elders face in reporting abuse. Elders throughout the U.S. lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation.
The proclamation notes that elder abuse threatens the livelihood of other individuals and increases elder's risk of death by 300% compared to seniors who have not been mistreated.
"Saline County's vulnerable and older adults of all social, economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds may be targets of abuse, neglect or exploitation, which can occur in families, long-term care communities, and medical settings," the proclamation reads. "...we all have the responsibility to support the safety, welfare and dignity of vulnerable and older adults."
What's planned during this month of observance?
Beyond just the month of June, DVACK and other local entities will work to assist victims by providing support services and connecting older adults with the resources they may need.
DVACK has an ongoing goal of creating more resources for older adults in need, creating effective intervention and prevention policies, and discussing the issue with family members and peers to promote awareness and prevention of elder abuse.
Last week was Red Flag Week at the Senior Center, where DVACK provided information about what to look for in elder abuse.
On June 15, there will be cupcakes and a Q&A with Brandy Bohm, domestic violence and elder abuse program manager. On June 21, there will be a game day at the Senior Center, and on June 26, a night of crosswords will be hosted at the Senior Center.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or elder abuse, local resources are available at the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas, www.dvack.org, 785-827-5862.
Kendrick Calfee has been a reporter with the Salina Journal since 2022, primarily covering county government and education. You can reach him at kcalfee@gannett.com or on Twitter @calfee_kc.
This article originally appeared on Salina Journal: Saline County recognizes June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month
