The Illinois Department on Aging on Thursday noted that June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and with it, encouraged everyone to learn the warning signs, and how to report abuse.
With reports of elder abuse on the rise in Illinois since 2022, the Department on Aging’s own Director Mary Killough reminded Illinoisans to learn the warning signs and speak up about suspected abuse of older adults.
“Elder abuse is sadly more common than many people realize, but it is largely preventable. By understanding what elder abuse is, recognizing the signs, and taking steps to prevent it, we can create safer and more supportive communities for older adults.”
The IDoA states that elder abuse is characterized as an act causing any physical, mental, or sexual injury to an older adult, including exploitation of their financial resources and abandonment. The term also applies to actions that create an environment in which harm could be expected, including harm to an older adult’s health, physical and/or emotional well-being, or welfare.
National studies show that as many as one in 10 adults aged 60 and older will experience some form of elder abuse in a given year, with some older adults simultaneously experiencing more than one type of abuse. The trauma of elder abuse can result in serious consequences, including physical and mental health issues, loss of social and familial relationships, financial hardship, and more.
Illinois’ Adult Protective Services (APS) program investigates reports of abuse and mistreatment and provides support to help survivors recover by connecting them with health care resources and social services. Last year, APS agencies received more than 18,000 reports of potential elder abuse in Illinois, along with around 4,000 reports of potential abuse of adults younger than 60 with physical or developmental disabilities.
Anyone can report abuse of an older adult or person with a disability who lives in the community by calling Illinois’ 24-hour APS hotline at 866-800-1409 or 711 – for Telecommunications Relay Service for persons with hearing or speech disabilities. The IDoA reminds individuals that when making a report to APS, callers should be prepared to provide the name and location of the alleged victim and details regarding the alleged abuse. APS reports are confidential, and reporters may choose to remain anonymous.
If an older adult is in immediate, life-threatening danger, call 911. To report suspected abuse in a long-term care facility, contact a long-term care ombudsman or, for nursing homes specifically, call the Illinois Department of Public Health’s nursing home hotline at 800-252-4343.
Signs of potential elder abuse may include unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, such as becoming emotionally upset or withdrawn, unsafe or unsanitary living conditions, and sudden changes in an older adult’s bank accounts or banking practices; a more comprehensive list of warning signs is available from the U.S. Department of Justice.
