World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), observed each year on June 15th, serves as a call-to-action for our communities to raise awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elders, and reaffirm our commitment to the principle of justice for all.

Elder abuse is widespread. 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.

We can prevent elder abuse from happening. We can strengthen the social support structure, we can reduce social isolation, protect communities and families against elder abuse, and build a nation where no individual is subject to abuse.

WEAAD Fact Sheet: Frequently Asked Questions about Elder Abuse

More information about WEAAD.

Consumer Voice has several resources available for preventing, identifying, and reporting abuse, neglect and exploitation:

• Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation & Misappropriation of Property - Presentation and Fact Sheet with information on resident rights and steps to take if these rights are jeopardized
• Put a Stop to Poor Care -  Brochure identifying warning signs and red flags
• How to Prevent, Detect and Report Financial Exploitation in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities - Fact Sheets and Webinar
• Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes: What You Need to Know - Fact Sheet
• Reuniting Residents and Families: What to Look for and Questions to Ask as You Resume Visits in a Long-Term Care Facility - Fact Sheet
• Nursing Home Neglect: Preventing It and Getting Help - Fact Sheet