by Kim Johnson – Regional Long Term Care Ombudsman

Every day, headlines throughout the U.S. paint a grim picture of seniors who have been abused, neglected, and exploited; often by people they trust the most.  Every year an estimated 2.1 million older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation.  The best estimates show that worldwide an older adult is abused every 2.7 minutes.  And that is only part of the picture.  Experts believe that for every case of elder abuse or neglect reported; as many as five cases go unreported.  Elder abuse can happen to anyone and can occur anywhere—in a person’s own home, in nursing homes or assisted living facilities, even in hospitals.  It affects elders across all socioeconomic groups, cultures, and races.  Based on available information, women, elders who are homebound or isolated, and individuals ages 80 and older are most at risk.  Perhaps what is most surprising is that the mistreatment is often perpetrated by the individual’s own family members.  An elder abuse victim may be right here in Kernersville your neighbor, friend, or family member.  One day, it could even be YOU!

The tragedy of elder abuse is a reflection upon all of us.  Our elders have given to us for many years, and it is now our turn to give back to them.  It is up to each and every one of us to do our part in raising awareness locally.  World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is recognized worldwide yet celebrated locally right here in Kernersville with an awareness walk.  The event will share information on the many facets of abuse and neglect in later life, as a family violence problem, an intergenerational concern, as well as a health, justice, and human rights issue.  It is a chance to speak with one voice on this important matter.

The Piedmont Triad Regional Council Area Agency on Aging, a governmental agency new to Kernersville last fall, announces the 3nd Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) Walk to be held on June 21, 2014 at Triad Park in Kernersville.  Registration begins at 9:00 AM and the 1 mile Walk will kick-off at 10:00 AM.  There is no cost to participate and everyone that has pre-registered will receive a free t-shirt.  Join us for this multi-generational, family friendly event which will offer music, entertainment, food, and, most importantly, information about how to protect elders against abuse.

For more information or to register to participate, please visit www.ptrc.org/awareness.  We invite the entire Piedmont Triad region to join us in the race to end elder abuse!