Elder Abuse Awareness Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 15, 2021

Contact: Dan Hoblick, Department of Human Services, 605-773-6463

 

Elder Abuse Awareness Day

 

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed June 15, Elder Abuse Awareness Day (EAAD) in South Dakota.

 

EAAD provides an opportunity for communities to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of the older population throughout the state.

 

According to the Administration for Community Living, each year in the United States, an estimated 5 million older persons are abused, neglected and exploited.

 

Elders lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation, funds that could have been used to pay for basic needs such as housing, food, and medical care.

 

South Dakota Department of Human Services Cabinet Secretary Shawnie Rechtenbaugh said, “Pay attention to your elderly friends, loved ones, and neighbors. Reach out if you observe signs of neglect or caregiver burn-out, weight change, lack of interest in activities or people, and untidy appearance to name a few. Concerns can be reported confidentially to Dakota at Home at 1-833-663-9673.”

 

This statewide observation coincides with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

 

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations.

 

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