June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a day dedicated to raising awareness about the abuse and neglect faced by older adults worldwide. The Adult Protective Services (APS) team is committed to shining a light on this issue. They will be out front of the St. Croix County Government Center on Tuesday, June 11 to raise awareness and share resources to help our elderly and vulnerable adults. While you are here, stop and enjoy lunch. The Agave Food Truck will be at the Government Center during this time.
- June 11
- 11 am – 1 pm
- St. Croix Government Center (Front Entrance)
If you suspect the abuse or neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adult, call 715-246-8255.
Our APS team has seen an increase in the number of referrals for elder abuse and neglect over the past few years:
- 2019: 400 Referrals
- 2020: 403 Referrals
- 2021: 448 Referrals
- 2022: 521 Referrals
- 2023: 583 Referrals
As of May 2024, we are already up to 300 referrals, indicating another potential increase this year. These referrals include reports of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults aged 18-59 and adults over 60 years of age.
Neglect, self-neglect, and declining physical and mental health are some of the more common reports our APS team receives. Sometimes signs of neglect mask underlying abuse by others. Our APS team's job is to identify the harm and intervene appropriately.
Signs of Elder Abuse and Neglect
Be vigilant for signs of elder abuse and neglect. Some signs can include:
- Physical Changes: Unexplained injuries, sores, bruises, sudden weight loss.
- Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal, loss of interest in activities, excessive fear, panic, paranoia.
- Financial Concerns: Unpaid bills, missing money, fraudulent credit issues.
Learn more about signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation in this resource from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
How You Can Help
Family members and caregivers can play a crucial role in detecting potential abuse or neglect. Our team recommends you start having conversations early on with loved ones and keep having conversations. Know the people in your life so you can recognize changes in behaviors, changes in physical condition, and changes in overall well-being. Encourage everyone who is important to you to identify “their person”, tell them their wishes, and complete Power of Attorney paperwork. The Power of Attorney paperwork allows you to identify your personal choices and also who should act in your place should you be unable to act. It is important to review and update your Power of Attorney paperwork every couple of years to note any changes. Remember to share the information with your doctor, your bank, and your family. This means you too! Lead by example. Don’t just tell others to do it. Do it together!
Please join us in taking a stand against elder abuse. If you suspect the abuse or neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adult, call 715-246-8255.
For more resources visit the Adult Protective Services section on our website.
About WEAAD
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The purpose of WEAAD is to promote a better understanding of the abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic factors that affect elder abuse and neglect.