To the editor:

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The abuse, neglect and exploitation of older adults is largely under-recognized and has devastating consequences to older adults who have been victimized. This is a global issue that reaches beyond all boundaries and requires all of us to take action.

It is estimated that every year in the United States, 1 million to 2 million older adults are victims of mistreatment. In FY 2007, Adult Protective Services received 375 reports of suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation on Douglas County older adults. More than half of those reports were concerns of neglect. The pain and suffering experienced by these victims is immeasurable.

Please join Douglas County Senior Services and the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department in building a stronger, safer community by helping to protect one of our most precious resources – our elders. Call or check in on an older relative, friend or neighbor this Father’s Day.

Dan Partridge, director,
Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department;

John Glassman,
executive director, Douglas County Senior Services