May is Elder Abuse Prevention month.

Each year, many older adults and younger disabled adults are victims of abuse.

 

Forms of abuse include: 

1.      Neglect – failing to provide necessary assistance to keep physically and mentally healthy

2.      Self-Neglect – the failure to provide one’s self with the necessities of life

3.      Financial exploitation – a person’s resources or property is stolen or mismanaged for another individual’s profit or advantage

4.      Emotional or mental abuse – the intentional infliction of mental anguish by verbal threats, intimidation, or humiliation

5.      Physical abuse – the intentional infliction of physical pain or injury

6.      Sexual abuse – unwanted sexual activity

 

Look for warning signs!

 

Examples might include: (these signs could also indicate other problems that do not involve abuse)

1.      sudden changes in weight, behavior or finances

2.      withdrawal from social activities

3.      untreated, unexplained, or repeated injuries or health problems

4.      poor hygiene, unsanitary environment

5.      severe anxiety, fearfulness, depression

 

Speak Up! Report Suspected Abuse!

 

1.      to local law enforcement

2.      to a social service agency

3.      toll- free 24-hour hot line at 1-888-832-3858

4.      9-1-1

 

Reports can be made anonymously!  There’s no excuse for elder abuse!

 

Please join Family Service at Friendship Retirement Community's "Healthy Hearts, Healthy Minds, Healthy Homes" event on Friday, May 24, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.: 397 Hershberger Road, Roanoke, VA 24012. This is a FREE senior's fair focused on healthy senior living. Meet vendors from all aspects of retirement and senior living services. For more information, please call Heather Sellers at (540) 283-4823. Presented by the Family Violence Coordinating Council, a committee of the Council of Community Services.

This service is designed to safeguard the personal and financial affairs of individuals who need assistance. Services include:

• Representative Payee
• Receipt disbursement of Social Security funds
• Power of Attorney - Legal authority to handle affairs; sign checks, forms and contracts
• Durable Power of Attorney - In the event of future infirmity, the client’s wishes regarding health care, financial management and ethical issues have already been documented

Service Fees

Insurance, Medicare and Medicaid are accepted for some programs. Services may be offered on a subsidized basis to those without insurance. Please contact Family Service for additional information.

Help is Available

• Day and evening appointments
• Subsidized service fees available
• All inquiries are totally confidential
• Assistance with referrals to other community resources

For more information, contact:
Older Adult Services at (540) 563-5316