Each June, we recognize National Elder Abuse Awareness Month. It’s a time to raise awareness about the mistreatment, neglect, and exploitation older adults may face, while also promoting dignity, respect, and safety for the aging members of our communities.
At ResilientSD, we believe every person deserves to age with compassion and support.
Fun fact: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15, and was launched 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization.
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), about 1 in 10 Americans age 60 and older has experienced some form of elder abuse. Experts also estimate only 1 in 24 cases is reported to authorities, meaning many older adults suffer in silence.
Respecting Older Adults
Every older adult deserves to be treated with dignity, patience, and respect. Aging does not reduce a person’s voice or right to make decisions about their own life.
Unfortunately, older adults are sometimes overlooked, dismissed, or treated unfairly because of assumptions about aging. Respect means listening carefully, including older adults in conversations and decisions, and recognizing the experiences and wisdom they bring to families and communities.
Using respectful language also matters. Speaking directly to older adults, honoring their preferences, and encouraging independence whenever possible helps people maintain confidence and self-worth.
Small actions, like checking in on a neighbor, offering assistance without being patronizing, or simply taking time to listen, can make a meaningful difference.
Protecting Independence
Independence looks different for everyone. For some older adults, it may mean living at home safely with support. For others, it may involve transportation services, accessible healthcare, or assistance with daily activities while still maintaining personal choice and control.
Having the right support systems in place can help older adults remain active, connected, and safe. Accessible housing, reliable transportation, and clear communication all play an important role in maintaining independence and quality of life.
Did you know? Social isolation can increase the risk of elder abuse. Staying connected through family, friends, community programs, and regular social interaction can help reduce vulnerability and improve overall well-being.
Protecting independence also means helping older adults avoid financial exploitation and scams. Encouraging open conversations about finances, safety, and trusted resources can help prevent abuse before it happens.
Why Awareness Matters
Many cases of elder abuse go unnoticed because warning signs can be difficult to recognize. Some older adults may feel embarrassed, afraid, or dependent on the person causing harm, making them less likely to report abuse.
Awareness helps communities recognize the signs and take action sooner. Elder abuse can include physical harm, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, abandonment, or social isolation.
There’s remarkable work being done to help [Direct Care Workers] and this idea of [Direct Care Worker] stress, it’s so important for [Direct Care Workers] who are under stress to recognize that within themselves, to not feel embarrassed or ashamed, and to reach out and accept help, which is very hard for a lot of us to do.
– Laura Mosqueda, 2019
Dean, Keck School of Medicine of USC
Professor of Family Medicine
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can happen anywhere, including private homes, assisted living communities, or nursing facilities. It may involve family members, Direct Care Workers, trusted individuals, or others in positions of authority.
There are several forms of elder abuse, including:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Financial exploitation
- Neglect
- Abandonment
- Sexual abuse
Financial exploitation is one of the most common forms of abuse. Older adults lose billions of dollars each year to scams, theft, and financial manipulation.
Did you know? Social isolation and cognitive conditions such as dementia can increase an older adult’s vulnerability to abuse.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Awareness is one of the strongest tools for prevention.
Warning signs may include:
- Bruises, burns, or unexplained injuries
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Poor hygiene or untreated medical needs
- Missing belongings or unusual banking activity
- Fearfulness around certain individuals
- Unpaid bills despite available financial resources
Sometimes the signs are subtle. Listening, observing, and checking in regularly can make a meaningful difference.
How Can You Help Support Older Adults?
- Stay Connected. Isolation can increase the risk of abuse. Regular visits, phone calls, and conversations help older adults stay supported and connected.
- Learn the Warning Signs. Unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, sudden withdrawal, or unusual financial activity may be signs someone needs help.
- Speak Respectfully. Every older adult deserves patience, dignity, and the opportunity to make their own choices whenever possible.
- Support Direct Care Workers. Providing services can be stressful. Offering support, resources, or a helping hand can reduce burnout and improve care for older adults.
- Report Concerns. If something seems wrong, speaking up could protect someone from harm. Adult Protective Services and local agencies can help investigate concerns safely.
Preventing elder abuse takes all of us. Families, Direct Care Workers, neighbors, healthcare providers, and community members all have a role in protecting older adults and promoting dignity and safety.
This June, let’s continue building communities where older adults feel respected and included. When communities work together to protect vulnerable adults, everyone benefits.