On Friday, June 14 the Senior Citizens Advisory Council and the Orange County Board of Supervisors honored three outstanding volunteers for their service to seniors at their meeting. I was wowed to be one of those volunteers. Greg Katmarian and Elaine Tayefeh were also honored. I know they feel like me--privileged to be among citizens who are trying to make a difference for older adults.
I picked up all the information and flyers on the table to read. I was heart-broken by a flyer for Elder Abuse. I cried inside, a day to create awareness for Elder Abuse. What are we doing or better yet, what are we not doing to protect our seniors! This is what I have learned.
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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is on Sat., June 15, 2013. It is estimated that 2.1 million older Americans (approximately 11%) are victims of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation every year. For every case reported, five cases go unreported.
Elder abuse can be abandonment, financial exploitation, physical, psychological, neglect or even sexual abuse of an older individual. They might be abused by spouses, adult children, grandchildren, caregivers or people in positions of and authority power. They could even be strangers. Although anyone can be a victim—the vast majority of victims are women.
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Victims face barriers in reporting abuse and seeking help. They may feel shame, guilt and blame themselves. They may even feel trapped physically due to vision, hearing, mobility, financial dependence or psychological impairments. Victims who are reporting abuse are receiving inadequate support.
The ultimate goal of WEAAD is to create awareness about elder abuse and prevent it. We need to encourage our local, state and national organizations to protect our seniors. Abuse and violence can cause increased deaths and disability. It is harmful for a senior’s health and well being. It is impacting our society, families and our communities.
If you want to learn more about Elder Abuse on Thurs., June 20 from 10 am to 12 pm a group of professionals and community members will share their knowledge at Laguna Woods Clubhouse Three. To reserve a seat and free lunch, call the Office on Aging, 1/800-510-2020.
Please, please be kind and respectful to our seniors. We need to give them the quality of life they Deserve. They have given so much to us.
