(COLUMBUS) – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine joins today in raising concerns for elder safety as June 15 is recognized as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Legislation to recognize the day on a state level is pending in Ohio.
"As Attorney General, my job is to protect Ohioans – especially our elderly. The elderly face many challenges, and abuse is one of them," said Attorney General DeWine. "My office is dedicated to protecting this vulnerable population and letting people know about the problem of elder abuse and how it can be prevented. We also can help those who have been victims of this abuse."
Elder abuse can happen in many ways, including physical pain, mental anguish and financial loss. Ohio county departments of job and family services received 17,366 reports of abuse, neglect, self-neglect and exploitation of adults from July 2008 through June 2009. More than 90 percent were for those 60 and older.
The Ohio Attorney General's Office works closely with local law enforcement and social service agencies to fight crimes against the elderly. This effort includes basic and advanced training to law enforcement in preventing and uncovering elder abuse. Additionally, the Attorney General's Office educates the public about the many forms of elder fraud and provides the opportunity to file complaints.
In 2009, the Attorney General's Elder Abuse Commission was established. It provides a forum for improving elder justice throughout the state.
A first-ever Elder Abuse Symposium was held at the Attorney General's 2011 Two Days in May annual state conference for crime victims and those who serve them. The symposium was designed to fill a nationally recognized gap in research on elder issues and prioritize a research agenda for the state.
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Media Contacts:
Eve Mueller 614-466-3840
Mark Moretti 614-466-3840