Central PA senior advocates joined state officials recently to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in an event at the Capitol. Flanked by lawmakers in both parties, officials and advocates offered remarks about this serious and often under-reported problem.

In Pennsylvania, more than 20,800 cases of suspected abuse and neglect were reported to the Department of Aging’s older adults protective services program, which works with investigators from the state’s 52 local Area Agencies on Aging to protect older Pennsylvanians.

“Our commitment to create a strong network of dedicated community and government organizations that deliver vital services to our most vulnerable residents ensures that we are working to provide safer, more livable communities for all Pennsylvanians,” said Secretary of Aging Teresa Osborne.

Joining her, Secretary of Banking and Securities Robin Wiessmann spoke about outreach to financial professionals and the public to help them recognize and report financial fraud, and to be alert to signs of cognitive impairment and abuse. She added, “The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities is committed to protecting seniors from financial abuse and exploitation.”

In addition to financial exploitation, elder abuse takes the form of caregiver neglect, self-neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional and verbal abuse. Anyone can report elder abuse by calling the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-490-8505, or by contacting their local Area Agency on Aging. Pennsylvania law protects those who report suspected abuse from retaliation and civil or criminal liability; all calls are free and confidential. For more information, click here.

If you’ve not yet reviewed the newly revised Pennsylvania Department of Aging Website; click here. It contains a number of vital information points, including a download link to the new Benefits & Rights For Older Pennsylvanians - This booklet is an easy-to-read guide that provides information about Aging Services available across the commonwealth.