In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office is hoping to bring attention and understanding to the often unspoken issues surrounding the physical, emotional and financial abuse of elders.

The victims are mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, neighbors and friends, who quite often are hiding in plain sight.

As the public strives to honor and assist its aging population, it is important to acknowledge their vulnerabilities to victimization, work together to find local solutions and continue to educate others about the warning signs of abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Abuse of the elderly can be tricky to spot. The following are a few red flags:

– Caregiver has control of elder’s money, but is failing to provide for their needs.

– Large withdrawals or purchases are made for items not beneficial to the senior.

– Suspicious changes are made to the vulnerable adult’s will, power of attorney, title or policy, but they are unable to comprehend the transaction or what it means.

– Lack of necessities at home – electric, water, food – yet caregiver appears to be well taken care of.

– Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from friends or family, does not want to talk about finances or seems nervous or afraid when caregiver is around.

– Older adult claims to have won the lottery or sweepstakes and is paying for shipping fees via Western Union or prepaid debit cards.

– Unexplained signs of injury, such as bruises, welts, scars or burns.

– When the individual no longer takes care of themselves or their surroundings and refuses to get assistance, this is self-neglect.

To report abuse, neglect or exploitation, contact the Florida Department of Children and Families Abuse Hotline at 800-96-ABUSE (22873) or online at: www.myflfamilies.com.

For information about local health and human service agencies, call United Way 211.

In an emergency dial 911 and for law enforcement assistance, call the LCSO at 239-477-1000.

Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office