June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on an issue that affects millions of older adults across the country.
SeniorCare has been asked why we promote Elder Abuse Awareness. While it is not always easy to talk about, raising awareness is one of the most important steps we can take to help protect the dignity, safety, and well-being of older adults in our communities.
When many people hear the term “elder abuse,” they may think only of physical harm. In reality, elder abuse can take many forms. It can include emotional abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, abandonment, or even self-neglect. Some forms of abuse leave visible signs, while others can be much harder to recognize.
Unfortunately, elder abuse is more common than many people realize. Experts estimate that millions of older Americans experience some form of abuse each year. Yet many cases are never reported. Some older adults may feel embarrassed or ashamed. Others may fear retaliation, worry about losing a relationship, or believe that no one will be able to help.
Financial exploitation is one of the fastest-growing forms of elder abuse. Scammers increasingly target older adults through phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media. They may pretend to be government agencies, banks, technical support representatives, charities, or even family members in distress. Fraudulent schemes can result in significant financial losses and emotional stress.
However, elder abuse does not always come from strangers. Sometimes it occurs within families or among trusted caregivers. This reality can make it especially difficult for someone to seek help. That is why community awareness is so important. The more people understand the warning signs, the better equipped they are to recognize problems and offer support.
Some warning signs may include sudden changes in behavior, unexplained injuries, poor hygiene, missed medical appointments, unusual financial transactions, isolation from friends and family, or increased anxiety and fearfulness. While these signs do not always indicate abuse, they can signal that something is wrong and deserves attention.
Raising awareness is not about creating fear. Rather, it is about fostering a community where older adults are valued, respected, and supported. Awareness encourages conversations among families, friends, neighbors, service providers, and community organizations. It reminds us all that protecting older adults is a shared responsibility.
Communities play a vital role in prevention. Simple actions can make a difference. Staying connected with older neighbors, checking in on friends, helping someone understand a suspicious phone call, or encouraging participation in community activities can reduce isolation and strengthen support networks. Strong social connections are one of the best protections against abuse and exploitation.
Older adults can also take proactive steps to protect themselves. Being cautious with personal and financial information, discussing major financial decisions with trusted individuals, staying socially engaged, and seeking advice when something seems suspicious are all important strategies. Most importantly, anyone who feels unsafe or concerned should know that help is available.
The goal of Elder Abuse Awareness Month is not merely to draw attention to a problem. It is to inspire action, compassion, and vigilance. Every older adult deserves to live with dignity, independence, and respect. By learning more about elder abuse and speaking openly about it, we can help create communities where older adults feel safe, valued, and empowered.
Awareness is often the first step toward prevention. When communities come together to recognize the signs of abuse, support those at risk, and promote respect for older adults, we help ensure that everyone can age with the security and dignity they deserve.
If you suspect elder self-neglect or other abuse, you can call the Massachusetts-based Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-922-2275—available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Learn more on SeniorCare’s Protective Services webpage.