In the United States, 1 to 2 million reports of elder and vulnerable adult abuse are made; however, the real number of victims is even higher because most cases are not reported, according to Maryland Department of Aging and Long Term Care. In recognition of June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month, below are a list of different types of elder abuse and potential red flags to be aware of to better protect the elder citizens in our community:

• Physical/Sexual Abuse - Inadequately explained cuts, wounds, sores, bruises, welts, burns or fractures;
• Financial Abuse/Exploitation - Unusual bank account activity, change in spending habits, unpaid bills, vulnerable older adult has signed property transfers (Power of Attorney, new will, etc.) but is unable to comprehend the transaction or what it means;
• Psychological Abuse - Unexplained or uncharacteristic changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from normal activities; or
• Neglect/Self-Neglect - Lack of basic hygiene, adequate food, or clean and appropriate clothing.

"Unfortunately, elder abuse is becoming a growing problem both locally and nationally," says the Honorable Sheila R. Tillerson Adams, Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court for Prince George's County. "If you know someone who may be a victim of elder abuse, I encourage you to contact the Prince George's County Family Justice Center, an initiative of the Circuit County, or advocate and support the elders in your community. Together, we can eliminate this horrific crime."

For more information, click here.

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