World Elder Abuse Awareness Day June 15, 2007
Facts about elder abuse in Maine
- 14,000 seniors are abused in Maine every year
- 84% of cases are suspected, but never reported
- Of the reported cases, 85% were abused by family members or loved ones
What is elder abuse?
- Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, financial abuse or exploitation
- Many seniors are vulnerable due to isolation, dependence on others for care, or loneliness
- An abused senior often does not want to report the abuse
What you can do
- Provide support to the senior who needs help in making a call
- There is no excuse for elder abuse - it is a crime in Maine
- To report suspected abuse of a senior, contact Adult Protective Services at 1-800-624-8404