As more Americans are able to live longer and healthier lives, we have an obligation to ensure the fair treatment of all individuals in our community. As we grow older, certain risk factors leave us more susceptible to the harmful actions of others. These risk factors include social isolation and cognitive decline. Sadly, more than one in ten adults has experienced elder abuse. The majority of the victims are women, and the majority of abusers are family members or other caretakers in a position of trust. Elder abuse can take many forms, including neglecting a person’s needs, causing physical harm, bullying and other emotional abuse, or financial theft.
You can help by simply staying connected to other adults in your life. Stop by and say “hello,” or spend a few minutes on the phone. Watch for these signs of abuse, and if you are concerned for someone in your life, call the anonymous hotline provided by the state.
Elder Abuse Hotline: 800-922-2275
Learn more about how to prevent elder abuse. Coastline produced a two-part series, where we speak with a Coastline care manager and an attorney from South Coastal Counties Legal Services. Watch below:
On a recent episode of “A Conversation With…”, a show produced by the New Bedford Cable Network, District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III discussed the topic of elder abuse. The show is airing on and is available online by clicking here.
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