Report suspicion of elder abuse

The age of the average Red Willow County resident is about 40, more than four years older than the average Nebraskan and about three years older than the average American.

Take out school kids and pre-schoolers, and it's easy to see that many of us are approaching the age where we're considered "elderly."

Fortunately, rural America is a place where we tend to look after our neighbors. Unfortunately, having that tendency is no guarantee abuse of elderly people won't happen.

That's why the Department of Health and Human Services is asking Nebraskans to wear purple on Wednesday in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

"The goal of Elder Abuse Awareness Day is simple -- to know the warning signs and to speak up and help stop abuse or neglect from happening in the first place," said Todd Reckling, director of the Division of Children and Family Services. "We're encouraging Nebraskans to wear purple on June 15 to show their support and to remind others that they can help stop elder abuse, too."

If you know an older person or vulnerable adult, be aware of these warning signs:

S udden changes in behavior or finances;

P hysical injuries, dehydration or malnourishment;

E xtreme withdrawal, depression or anxiety;

A bsence of basic care or necessities;

K ept away from others;

U nsanitary living conditions; and

P ersonal items are missing.

Elder abuse is not something we like to think about, but it can happen anywhere. If you see any of the warning signs, cal the 24-hour toll-free hotline at (800) 652-1999.

"Many older and vulnerable adults in Nebraska are the victims of financial exploitation, neglect and physical abuse," said Vivianne Chaumont, Director of Medicaid and Long-Term Care. "These victims are often afraid to speak out because the abuse is a family member or a caregiver upon whom they depend. They fear retribution, lack of care, embarrassment and institutionalization.

For more information, visit the National Center on Elder Abuse website at 222.ncea.aoa.gov or the Adult Protective Services website at www.dhhs.ne.gov/nea/apsindex.htm