Break the silence campaign addresses hidden problem of elder abuse
July 15, 2009
Press release submitted by Lori L. Weber, Media Link, Inc.Break the Silence Campaign Addresses Hidden Problem of Elder Abuse
Elder abuse, the mistreatment of an older person, takes many forms. Abuse can come in the form of physical and emotional abuse, financial exploitation or neglect. But whatever the form, elder abuse hurts - physically, emotionally and socially. The suffering that results can"t be erased, but continued suffering can be reduced with heightened awareness.
That"s why the Illinois Department on Aging designates the month of July to "Break the Silence" about elder abuse. Alternatives for the Older Adult and Protective Service providers across the state of Illinois join this effort to bring attention to the issue and the resources available for help.
Elder abuse is a complex problem surrounded by misconceptions. Elder abuse is under-reported because victims are typically dependent upon the abuser and afraid of retaliation. Most incidents of elder abuse occur in the home. Four in five abusers are family members. Most are substance abusers. Some snap under the stress of caregiving, unaware that help is available.
Effective interventions can prevent or stop elder abuse. By increasing awareness among the general public, physicians, mental health professionals, home health workers, and others who provide services to older adults and family members, patterns of abuse and neglect can be broken and both the abused person and the abuser can receive needed help.
Anyone suspecting abuse should make a report, so that help can be offered. Reporters are kept confidential. The Illinois Department on Aging"s Senior Help Line is 1-800-252-8966 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The 24-Hour Hotline is 1-866-800-1409.
Effective interventions can prevent or stop elder abuse. By increasing awareness among the general public, physicians, mental health professionals, home health workers, and others who provide services to older adults and family members, patterns of abuse and neglect can be broken and both the abused person and the abuser can receive needed help.
Anyone suspecting abuse should make a report, so that help can be offered. Reporters are kept confidential. The Illinois Department on Aging"s Senior Help Line is 1-800-252-8966 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The 24-Hour Hotline is 1-866-800-1409.
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