Elder Abuse Awareness Month in June is a time dedicated to raising awareness and empowering communities to take action to protect seniors.
Every year, thousands of older adults in Texas fall victim to abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. In Texas, where the senior population continues to grow, it's more important than ever to address elder abuse and ensure the safety and well-being of our elders.
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse, including neglect and abandonment. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, there were over 83,000 reports of elder abuse investigated in Texas in 2023.
One of the biggest challenges in combating elder abuse is recognizing the signs. Seniors who are being abused may exhibit physical injuries such as bruises, cuts or fractures or emotional symptoms like depression, anxiety or withdrawal.
They may also show signs of financial exploitation, such as unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts or sudden changes in financial documents. It's important for family members, caregivers and community members to be vigilant and report anything suspicious involving an older adult’s finances to Adult Protective Services (APS).
In Texas, there are several resources available to help prevent and address elder abuse. APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of older adults, and provides other services to protect seniors from further harm. You can make a report 24/7 by contacting the Texas Abuse Hotline online or by phone at 1-800-2525400. Additionally, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides information and assistance for seniors and their families, including referral services, benefits counseling, legal assistance, caregiver support, nutrition services and care coordination.
As we observe Elder Abuse Awareness Month, it's important to come together to protect our seniors and ensure they are treated with dignity and respect. There are several ways you can get involved:
• Educate yourself and others about the signs of elder abuse and how to report it.
• Volunteer with local organizations that provide support services for seniors.
• Advocate for policies that protect seniors from abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.
• Reach out to seniors in your community and offer your support and friendship.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Texas seniors. This Elder Abuse Awareness Month, let's commit to protecting our seniors and creating a safer, more compassionate Texas for all.
Written by Texas Department of Family and Protective Services’ Adult Protective Services
