The abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older persons is a serious and ongoing issue in the United States and worldwide. Hundreds of thousands of incidents of physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse and exploitation occur every year, according to the Administration on Aging (AOA). In an international effort to recognize and raise awareness of this issue, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was created and launched on June 15, 2006. June 15, 2011, establishes the 6th Annual WEAAD.
Elder neglect and abuse is not discriminatory. It may affect any older person, of any culture, socioeconomic level, or ethnicity and can have devastating and even life-changing effects, both financial and non-economic.
To recognize WEAAD and be part of the effort to raise awareness of and help prevent elder and nursing home abuse in Maryland, residents can do any or all of the following:
- Attend or organize an educational program or community event;
- Commit to visiting an older family member, friend, or neighbor;
- Become a Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman volunteer; and/or
- Wear purple.
Further actions that one may take to help prevent incidents of Maryland elder abuse and neglect include:
- Keeping in contact with older loved ones, friends, and neighbors;
- Learning about and being alert to warning signs, such as unexplained bruising, sudden and/or unusual financial activity, and poor hygiene or dirtiness; and
- Reporting any suspected elder mistreatment immediately to the local adult protective services agency or, in an emergency, law enforcement. To report suspected elder abuse and/or neglect in Maryland, you may call 1-800-332-6347.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of elder abuse or neglect in Maryland, dedicated Baltimore nursing home abuse attorney, Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” can help you seek compensation from at-fault parties for the financial and non-economic losses and damages suffered. Contact Mr. Heisler today to learn more about exercising your legal rights at 877-228-4878.
Maryland Injury and Disability Blog Home
