Each year, hundreds of thousands of adults in the U.S. over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited.  These statistics are believed to be underestimated since many victims are unable or afraid to tell the police, family or friends about the violence.

Elder abuse affects men and women of all ethnic backgrounds and social status; it occurs in private residences and in care facilities. It includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, abandonment and financial abuse.

In 2013 there were more than 21,000 reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation of vulnerable and older adults made to North Carolina’s 100 county departments of social services. Reports are made not only by doctors and other professionals but by family members and concerned citizens in our communities. Anyone who suspects that a vulnerable or older adult is in need of protection is required by North Carolina General Statute (GS 108A-102) to report this information to the department of social services in the county where the adult resides.

From May 9 through June 16 Vulnerable and Elder Abuse Awareness Month is observed in North Carolina. This timeframe spans from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day in the hopes of reinforcing the spirit of respecting and valuing not just parents, but all elders.

We all have a responsibility to support the safety, welfare, and dignity of North Carolina’s vulnerable and older adults. We urge all citizens to work together to help protect adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It is imperative that North Carolinians refuse to tolerate the indignity of Elder Abuse.

For more information on elder abuse, please visit the Division of Aging and Adult Services page on Protecting Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities.