Sunday, June 15 will be Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Nebraska, by proclamation of Gov. Jim Pillen.

The day aligns with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, aimed at promoting a better understanding of abuse and neglect of aging individuals.

“Our elders are the foundation of our communities,” Pillen said. “Protecting them from abuse is not just a responsibility, it’s a reflection of our values. By standing together today, we commit to raising awareness, supporting prevention, and ensuring every aging individual can live with dignity and security.”

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, at least one in 10 adults over the age of 65 experience neglect or abuse. Elder abuse has many common forms, including:

• Physical abuse – The use of physical force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain, or impairment, or any physical injury to an adult caused by means that are not accidental.
• Neglect by others – Failure to provide the basic care or services necessary to maintain the health and safety of an adult. This failure can be active or passive.
• Financial abuse – The illegal or unethical exploitation and/or use of an elder’s funds, property, or other assets.

When elder abuse is happening, there are also several signs, including:

• Lack of basic amenities;
• Bruises, broken bones, or other wounds;
• Unexplained or uncharacteristic changes in behavior;
• Untreated bedsores or other untreated medical issues;
• Unpaid bills, new credit cards, and/or increased cash withdrawals;
• Harassment, coercion, intimidation, and/or humiliation of an older adult; or
• Isolation by caregiver.

Pillen was joined by leaders of the Department of Health and Human Services Children and Family Services, as well as advocates, and community partners working to prevent elder abuse and support aging Nebraskans.

“Every aging adult deserves our protection and our voice,” said Kathleen Stolz, CFS Deputy Director of Protection and Safety – Field Operations. “By shining a light on elder abuse, we affirm that every aging adult deserves to live with dignity, respect, and free from harm.”

Raising awareness is key to preventing and addressing this critical issue. By recognizing Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Nebraska joins communities around the world in highlighting the importance of safeguarding aging individuals and empowering community members to report suspected abuse or neglect, DHHS said.

If Nebraskans have reason to believe a vulnerable adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, call the Nebraska Child and Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline toll-free at 1-800-652-1999 or a local law enforcement agency.

The Hotline is operated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and language lines are available for non-English speakers. For more resources, please visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/weaad.

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