World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2025

This past Sunday marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – a day, observed on June 15th each year, to shine a light on the mistreatment of older adults, honor their dignity, and encourage everyone to help protect those who once protected us. This day reminds us why elder abuse matters, how it can happen, and what steps we can all take to prevent harm and support those affected.  

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical harm, emotional manipulation, financial exploitation, neglect, isolation from loved ones, or abandonment.  The statistics are alarming - sadly, about one in ten older adults experience some form of abuse, with older adults suffering from physical or cognitive impairments, such as those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, being especially vulnerable. Abusers can be strangers, caregivers, or even family members, and abuse often happens in secret, leading many signs of elder abuse to be hidden from view of those who may wish to help.  Unfortunately, most cases go unreported.  World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a call to break the silence and support those who may be suffering. 

Everyone can play a role in prevention and response. Recognizing signs of elder abuse is the first step in making a difference for these vulnerable older adults.  Some signs to watch for include unexplained injuries, sudden weight loss, changes in spending, isolation, or changes in important documents, such as legal or financial documents.  Professionals who more commonly interact with elderly individuals, such as elder law attorneys, geriatric physicians, and bank employees, can also undergo specialized training to be able to detect signs of elder abuse, and quickly and discreetly intervene to protect older adults they suspect might be suffering harm or exploitation and need help.  Educating yourself on the signs of abuse and acting quickly can make a big difference in someone’s safety and well-being. 

There are many ways we can all work together to combat elder abuse and protect the seniors in our communities.  By checking in on older neighbors, volunteering, supporting caregivers, and encouraging local organizations to look out for seniors, we can all do our part to uncover and address elder abuse happening to our neighbors or loved ones. Families and communities can help by having open conversations about future needs, staying involved in the lives of older adults, and making sure important documents and finances are managed safely. Encourage older adults to share information with trusted people, and to use resources like fraud-prevention programs. 

Elder Abuse Awareness Day is also a time to think about the bigger issues that put seniors at risk, like isolation, ageism, and scams. Older adults may be afraid to speak up, so it’s important for everyone - family, friends, neighbors, and community members - to stay alert. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts, document your concerns, and contact Adult Protective Services or local authorities right away. Taking action quickly can help stop the abuse and prevent further harm to an elderly person. In honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, let’s all commit to protecting the rights and well-being of older adults.

If you are concerned about a loved one or are in need legal support, contact FRB’s Elder Law professionals at info@frblaw.com. We’re here to help.