World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2023

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • May 30, 2023

Every year on June 15th, people worldwide come together to observe World Elder Abuse Day. This important occasion serves as a reminder of the need to address the alarming issue of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. As our population ages, it is crucial to spotlight this often hidden problem and take action to protect our senior citizens.


Every year an estimated 1 in 10 older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. And that’s only part of the picture: Experts believe that elder abuse is significantly under-reported, in part because so many of our communities lack the social supports that would make it easier for those who experience abuse to report it. Research suggests that as few as 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse come to the attention of authorities.


World Elder Abuse Day serves as a rallying call to bring attention to the issue of elder abuse and its devastating consequences. Increasing awareness can educate individuals, communities, and professionals about the signs, prevention strategies, and available resources. It encourages open dialogue, encourages reporting, and ensures that seniors receive the support and protection they need.


To combat elder abuse effectively, we must focus on promoting the overall well-being of our seniors. This involves fostering an age-friendly society that values and respects older adults. Key measures include:

  • Education and Training: Providing comprehensive training to professionals, caregivers, and community members to recognize and respond to elder abuse.
  • Social Support: Encouraging social connections and reducing isolation among older adults through community programs, senior centers, and volunteer initiatives.
  • Advocacy and Legislation: Supporting policy changes and legislation that strengthen elder protection laws and ensure the rights of older adults.
  • Caregiver Support: Offering resources, respite care, and support groups for caregivers, as they play a crucial role in the well-being of older adults.
  • Financial Literacy: Educating older adults about financial management, scams, and fraud prevention to reduce the risk of financial abuse.


The East Texas Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is eagerly preparing to attend the upcoming "Safeguarding Our Seniors Conference" as part of its commitment to promoting Elder Abuse Awareness Month. This important event will gather professionals, caregivers, and community members to collaborate and address the urgent issue of elder abuse. AAA aims to actively contribute by raising awareness about the various types of abuse, delivering educational sessions on recognizing warning signs, and advocating for the importance of reporting any suspected instances of elder abuse. By participating in conferences like this, AAA strives to empower individuals and communities to safeguard our seniors' well-being in the future. Below is information regarding the conference and registration.


Tuesday, June 13

8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Wisenbaker Conference Center (800 E. Dawson St. Tyler, TX 75701)

Register at → https://bit.ly/45DW7qI


World Elder Abuse Day reminds us of the importance of protecting our seniors and creating a society that values and cherishes their well-being. We can take significant steps towards safeguarding our older population by raising awareness, recognizing the signs of elder abuse, and promoting preventative measures. Let us stand together in the fight against elder abuse, ensuring that every senior can age with dignity, respect, and safety.


Resources
A woman is holding the hand of an elderly man while sitting in a chair.

USAging Announces New Public Awareness Campaign to Raise Visibility of Area Agencies on Aging

By USAging • June 25, 2025
USAging is celebrating 50 years as the national organization that represents Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Title VI Native American Aging Programs. As part of the 50th anniversary, USAging has launched a new public awareness campaign— Area Agencies on Aging: Helping You Live Long and Stay Strong . The goal of this campaign is to make the public aware of AAAs as a vital community resource and to educate consumers about the range of important services that AAAs offer to older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers. There are more than 600 AAAs serving every community across the country ready to help them to age well where most want—at home and in their community. All people hope to enjoy a long and healthy life—but many find that they need a little help as they go through the aging journey. “Research has shown that two-thirds of older adults will need some support to age well at home,” said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood. “But people often don’t know about AAA services or seek them out until they are in crisis—thereby missing the opportunity to connect to the range of services that are available to help them age well.” Services Provided by AAAs For Older Adults: Home-delivered and congregate meals: Nutritious meals at home or in group settings. In-home support: Assistance with daily tasks like bathing, cleaning and dressing. Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, stores and community activities. Health and wellness programs: Fall prevention, chronic disease management fitness classes. Benefits counseling: Help understanding and enrolling in Medicare, Medicaid and more. For Caregivers: Respite care: Short-term relief to prevent burnout. Training and support: Educational tools and support groups for caregivers. Information and referral : Guidance to local programs, services and community resources. “By 2035, older adults are expected to outnumber children under age 18 for the first time in the history of this country,” said Markwood. “By 2040, a full 22 percent of the American population will be 65 years or older. Currently, there are more than 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States. There has never been a more crucial time for people to learn about AAAs and the services that are available to them to help them live long and stay strong.” For more information, visit www.usaging.org/livelongstaystrong or connect with your local AAA by contacting the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov .
A man and a woman are practicing yoga together in a park.

Area Agency on Aging to Host Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • April 2, 2025
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.
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