PRESS RELEASE - Department of Elder Affairs

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2015
CONTACT: Ashley Marshall
850-414-2142
Department of Elder Affairs Recognizes Elder Abuse Awareness Day
~ Encourages
all Floridians to Help Prevent Elder Abuse~
TALLAHASSEE – In recognition of June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and to help
build safer communities for Florida’s 4.8 million seniors, the Department of Elder Affairs
encourages Floridians to educate themselves on the signs of abuse, report any suspicion or
knowledge of abuse, and work to end all forms of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
During the last fiscal year, the Florida Department of Children and Families received more than
45,000 reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of Florida elders. Unfortunately, the incidence
of elder abuse is widely underreported, and it is estimated that for each reported case of elder
abuse, more than 20 additional cases go unreported. Nationwide, almost 90 percent of all elder
abuse occurs in a domestic setting, usually by a family member or someone the victim knows.
“Our seniors should be treasured and respected,” said Department of Elder Affairs Secretary
Samuel P. Verghese. “Elder abuse is never acceptable, and it is the responsibility of each one of
us to report if we see or even suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Being aware of the signs of
abuse is critical, and it is up to each of us to put an end to this shameful practice.”
The goal of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is to raise awareness of the cultural, social,
economic, and demographic factors that affect elder abuse and neglect. At the Department of
Elder Affairs, the Elder Abuse Prevention Program works to educate all Floridians, including
seniors, caregivers, family members, and professionals who come in contact with seniors, about
the prevention of abuse.
Governor Rick Scott has issued a proclamation recognizing June 15 as Elder Abuse Awareness
Day in Florida.
If you are a victim or suspect elder abuse, please contact the Florida Elder Abuse Hotline at 1800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). If you would like more information about elder abuse
prevention programs, contact the Department of Elder Affairs at 850-414-2000.
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