Tuesday, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Greenbrier County Elder Abuse Awareness Committee is inviting the community to participate by becoming aware of the issue. Look for posters and ribbons throughout the community, as well as special wreaths and proclamations.
The purpose of this special day is to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons. Every year approximately 5 million older Americans are victims of abuse, neglect or financial exploitation. Experts believe that for every reported case, as many as 17 cases go unreported. Greenbrier County has a population approaching 20 percent of adults over 55 years of age, so many are at risk for abuse, neglect or exploitation in our area. During the Covid-19 pandemic older adults are at a special risk as they may be isolated and dependent on others for care. Oftentimes caregivers or family members may be the abusers.
The Greenbrier County Elder Abuse Awareness Committee meets monthly and works to assist elder victims by promoting awareness, access to services, and prosecution of offenders. Special wreaths will be hung for the month of June at the County Courthouse in Lewisburg and City Halls throughout the county along with Proclamations declaring June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
If you or an elder you know may be a victim of elder abuse reports can be made to APS at 304-647-7476, the Family Refuge Center at 304-645-6334, the Greenbrier Co. Prosecuting Attorney’s office at 304-647-6616 or any local law enforcement agency. For further information about the Greenbrier Co. Elder Abuse Awareness Committee call 304-645-7842.
