In recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness Month, Rice County Social Services is stepping up to bring attention to a disturbing trend affecting many within our elder population. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, every year, over 10% of those aged 65 and over are subjected to some form of elder abuse. This can range from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse to various forms of neglect and financial exploitation.
The statistics shared by the Rice County website are a painful reminder of the vulnerability of older adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that from 2002 to 2016, more than 643,000 older adults were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal assaults, with over 19,000 homicides to add to this grim tally. With the aging American population predicted to nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060, according to the U.S. Census, there's an urgent need to actively confront and to better protect those at risk.
Hannah Davidson, Rice County’s Adult Mental Health/Adult Protection supervisor, emphasized the varied nature of elder maltreatment. "No two cases of elder and vulnerable adult maltreatment look alike," said Davidson. Signs to watch out for include sudden weight loss or dehydration, unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, unmet medical needs, and unusual changes in spending patterns. Recent months have seen a spike in scams targeting older adults, with fraudsters often masquerading as trusted officials or organizations to swindle their victims out of money.
Davidson also offered advice on how to avoid falling victim to such scams. She urges all to remain vigilant, block unwanted communications, and never to hastily give out personal or financial information. "Resist the pressure to act immediately," Davidson said, underscoring the importance of thorough contemplation before responding to unexpected requests. For those suspecting elder abuse, Davidson encourages them to contact the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) at 844-880-1574, assurance given that reports made in good faith are shielded from legal repercussions.
"Protecting vulnerable adults from maltreatment is a collective responsibility," Davidson told Rice County News. She elaborated on the community's role in noticing and reporting any alarming signs, which then enables her team to provide specialized support through home visits, safety planning, and resource referrals. "Together we can prevent harm, preserve dignity and show compassion for our most vulnerable neighbors," Davidson affirmed.
