Earlier this week, the Orange County Board of Supervisors declared June 15, 2019 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) to help raise awareness about the millions of older adults who experience elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Members of the Board presented a resolution to leaders of the County of Orange Social Services Agency (SSA), Health Care Agency (HCA), District Attorney’s Office, OC Community Resources’ Office on Aging and other Orange County community partners to recognize their commitment to helping seniors live longer, safer and healthier lives.
Every year an estimated one in ten older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation. Last year in Orange County, there were more than 13,500 reports of elder abuse. This year, an average of over 1,200 reports each month have been made to date.
“Statistics clearly demonstrate that elder abuse is a widespread issue across the country and in Orange County,” said Fifth District Supervisor Lisa A. Bartlett, Chairwoman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. She continued, “As a community, we must come together to prevent elder abuse from happening to our vulnerable older residents.”
Second District Supervisor Michelle Steel, Vice Chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, stated, “Victims of abuse may be in poor physical health, have cognitive impairments, may be isolated from others and even unwilling to acknowledge they are victims. It is critical we remain alert and maintain strong social connections that will enable our older residents to live safely, independently and with dignity.”
“Our seniors here in Orange County have spent a lifetime contributing to the community to help keep our County prosperous and safe. We all share a responsibility to protect them in a meaningful way so that they can enjoy long, vital and active lives without fear,” said First District Supervisor Andrew Do.
The Board of Supervisors acknowledged the important work being done by SSA, HCA, the District Attorney’s Office and Office on Aging, as well as members from the Council on Aging and North Orange County Collaborative Committee at today’s meeting.
“We must do everything we can to ensure the safety and peace of mind of our valued residents,” said Third District Supervisor Donald P. Wagner. He continued, “I recognize our County agencies and local partners for their tremendous effort in addressing this issue, and thank them for their great service to our community.”
A World Elder Abuse Awareness Day expo will take place on Friday, June 14, 2019 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Buena Park Senior Center. The free event, focused on empowering the community against elder abuse, is open to the public and includes lunch. To RSVP or for more information, please call (714) 480-6450 or go to http://2019ocweaad.eventbrite.com.
Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee remarked, “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and the upcoming expo provide opportunities for people to learn more about elder abuse. I encourage everyone in the community to do their part to learn more about warning signs of elder abuse and what each of us can do to prevent it.”
If you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable senior, please call SSA’s Adult Protective Services 24-hour hotline at (800) 451-5155.
