“Our elders are one of our most precious resources. Elders are the connection to our past and hold stories and facts of our family’s history. Elders should always be treated with kindness and the utmost respect”.
It is estimated that 1 in 10 elders, those over 60, suffer abuse each year. We all have heard of the physical, sexual, financial, emotional and neglect that the elders are victims of in our community. Inside senior care facilities and among their family members.
Preventing elder abuse involves awareness, education and vigilance. Some things that we can do to show them love and respect are:
- Hold the door open for an Elder
- Stay connected: stop in for a visit with an Elder or call them. Isolation can make them more vulnerable
- Play a game with an Elder
- Encourage an Elder to tell you a story
- Bring flowers to an Elder
- Help clean an Elder’s home
- Play an Elder’s favorite music or movie
- Educate yourself, learn about the signs of abuse and how to recognize them
- Help them understand their finances, to avoid scams.
- Foster respectful communication and empathy
Our Lord Jesus taught us to LOVE ONE ANOTHER… remember, everyone deserves respect and safety, especially our elders.
To report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation of and self-neglect of an Elder call the statewide, 24-hour Adult Protective Services Hotline: 1-866-800-1409. Click here for more information from the Illinois Department on Aging.
