AG Yost to Commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day With Annual Event

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and his office’s Elder Abuse Commission will commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by hosting a free educational event on Monday, June 17, in Columbus.

The Ohio Elder Abuse Awareness Day Forum will bring together hundreds of advocates and professionals from across the state to examine effective responses to allegations of elder abuse and exploitation. Registration is available on the attorney general’s website and at the event.

“A call for help should never go unanswered,” Yost said. “I want to remind Ohio’s older adults that they have a team of advocates, social workers, care providers and others who are well prepared to offer support and protection against those with ill intentions.”

The event will take place at 12:30 p.m. at the Ohio Department of Transportation’s central office, located at 1980 W. Broad St.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an initiative that raises awareness about abuse and neglect affecting older adults. It is recognized annually on June 15.

Elder abuse is a devastating reality for many older Americans, but unfortunately, it too often goes unreported. The debilitating results of the abuse range from physical injury, pain, mental anguish, financial loss, violation of rights, to death. Elder abuse crosses all racial, ethnic, economic and religious backgrounds and reaches families in every Ohio community.

Warning signs of elder abuse may include:

  • Changes in an older adult’s physical appearance, such as weight loss or unexplained bruising or bleeding
  • Changes in an older adult’s personality or mood
  • Changes in an older adult’s finances or money management
  • A dominating, threatening caregiver or new “best friend” 
  • Exclusion from other family members or friends
  • Changes in an older adult’s home environment

Attorney General Yost’s Elder Justice Unit is committed to providing leadership and advocacy to combat elder abuse and exploitation throughout the state. The unit works with law enforcement, prosecutors, adult protective services and communities to protect Ohio’s older adults and to enhance victims’ access to vital criminal justice services.

To request assistance, training, or more information about elder justice issues, contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515 or visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov.