June is designated as Elder Abuse Awareness Month.
New data underscores the necessity of this awareness initiative.
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services highlights the prevalence of elder abuse cases.
Statistical Overview
Nearly 120,000 reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of Texas elders in the 2022 fiscal year.
Adult Protective Services (APS) investigated nearly 85,000 of these cases.
Over 50,000 cases were validated.
Types of Elder Abuse
Abuse can be:
Physical
Emotional
Verbal
Financial exploitation is most common.
Challenges in Investigating Exploitation
Exploitation cases are difficult when the abuser has a close relationship with the victim.
The perpetrator often uses their trusted role to exploit the victim, commonly financially.
Local and State Resources
APS in Travis County validated nearly 4,500 local cases in 2022.
Ombudsman services by state employees ensure care facilities residents are protected.
Ombudsman like Patty Dukaye plays a key role.
They visit residents, inform them of their rights, and address their concerns.
Role of Ombudsman
Visit residents in care facilities to ensure their rights are upheld.
Provide information about resident rights and facility responsibilities.
Focus on what the patient is comfortable with before proceeding with further action.
Collaboration with Authorities
Both APS and Ombudsman departments work with authorities to address and resolve issues of elder abuse.
Encouraging Reporting and Awareness
Emphasis on older adults' awareness of available resources to report abuse.
Elder abuse awareness month serves as a reminder of the support systems in place.
Reporting Elder Abuse
A dedicated number is available for reporting elder abuse, shown on-screen during discussions.
Key Takeaway
Elder abuse is a significant issue requiring awareness, adequate reporting channels, and collaborative efforts between protective services and ombudsman to ensure elder safety and rights.