Last week, a conference in Fairfield, Connecticut focused on the prevention of elder abuse, as well as identifying signs of neglect or abuse. The conference outlined many disturbing facts:
1) An end to elder abuse is not within sight. In fact, with the Baby Boomers in their 60s, it is apparent that the incidence of elder abuse will increase in the coming years.
2) It is estimated that elder abuse 2 – 10 percent of our elderly population fall victim to some form of elder abuse.
3) Research shows that only 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse or neglect are reported.
4) Connecticut’s rate of reported elder abuse cases is three times the national median.
5) Based on a 2006 survey, approximately 640 cases of elder abuse were reported in Fairfield County alone. Approximately 330 of these cases were in the Greater Bridgeport area.
At the conference, the Center for Elder Abuse Prevention was recognized for helping “seniors attain the highest quality of life, to assist victims, and to reduce the prevalence of elder abuse.”
Website Resources:
Connecticut leads nation in elder abuse cases, Westport News, Pat McCormack, June 19, 2009.
