Media contact(s):
Mary Louise Madigan: (216) 698-2521; mlmadigan@cuyahogacounty.us 
Kathie Sizemore: (216) 443-6181; kathleen.sizemore@jfs.ohio.gov 

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – June 15 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a day set aside for raising awareness about preventing and reporting elder abuse. Older adults are valued members of our community—neighbors, parents, grandparents, friends and mentors—and they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Unfortunately, many older adults suffer from abuse—physical, sexual, self-neglect, neglect and financial exploitation. In Cuyahoga County, the Division of Senior and Adults Services’ (DSAS) Adult Protective Services unit assisted over 2,400 survivors of elder abuse last year.

“National statistics say only one in 14 cases of abuse are reported,” said County Executive Armond Budish. “Preventing elder abuse by educating people about the types and signs of abuse, and how to report abuse can help our older residents live safely and contribute to the vitality of our County.”

DSAS invites the public to join in creating awareness around elder abuse throughout the month of June. Visit their website to learn about free events planned, including the national Walk for WEAAD; the #WEAAD615 Challenge; and Wear Purple Wednesdays (particularly June 15). Download helpful resources including a Red Flags of Abuse fact sheet or a See It, Stop It, Report It poster. DSAS is hosting its annual Elder Abuse Awareness Forum, and there are other informative in-person or virtual seminars being offered.

“We are calling on the community to assist us in protecting the County’s older residents, not only in June, but all year long,” said DSAS Interim Administrator Natasha Pietrocola. “Calls to our reporting portal continue to increase, with 2021 being one of our busiest years. If you see it, stop it and report it. We depend on you to help us keep our elders safe.”

For information on DSAS’ Elder Abuse Awareness activities, contact dsascommunications@jfs.ohio.gov. To report suspected elder abuse, contact the DSAS Connection Center 24-hours a day at 216-420-6700. You can also report elder abuse online through the State’s APS web portal.