By JAN McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Wood County investigated 388 cases of elder abuse and exploitation last year – compared to 315 cases the prior year. The uptick has been a common annual occurrence.
Overall, the county has experienced a 38% increase in the number of elder abuse and exploitation cases investigated in the last five years.
“And it is nearly certain those numbers are under-reported,” said Wood County Probate Court Judge David Woessner, whose jurisdiction includes protection of the elderly.
On Friday morning, people gathered outside the Wood County Senior Center in Bowling Green to acknowledge Elder Abuse Awareness Month and Flag Day. After a “Pause for the Pledge” and proclamations being read, speakers talked about the impact of abuse on older adults.
Elder abuse includes physical abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect and abandonment. Perpetrators often include children, other family members, spouses, and others with access to the aging population.
“Many of you may have heard statistics as more and more attention and focus has been placed on the abuse and exploitation of our elderly population in recent years,” Woessner said.
The probate court has a variety of tools to help protect the county’s older population, the judge said.
The court can insure an individual’s power of attorney is valid, determine whether an individual needs the assistance of a guardian, determine whether an individual is in need of immediate mental health services, or determine if an adult has been the victim of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
“But concerns can oftentimes only be addressed when they are raised or reported,” Woessner said. “While laws concerning mandatory reporting have been put in place, nothing will replace the observations of family, friends and neighbors who have simply seen something that may not look right or feel right – and have taken the next step of getting involved.”
“Making a short phone call to check on someone. Stopping for a visit just to say ‘hi.’ Offering to help out getting someone’s groceries or running errands – all are ways to show we care and to observe,” the judge said. “And when necessary, when we see or hear things that perhaps just don’t seem right – letting others who may be able to help know of concerns.”
Woessner thanked those present who assist the aging population each day.
“Whether it be the staff and volunteers at our senior centers throughout Wood County, our adult protective services workers of the Wood County Department of Job and Family Services, our first responders and home care providers, our private and volunteer guardians, and everyone who interacts and helps our senior citizens on a regular basis,” Woessner said. “Your work and help truly makes a difference.”
Maureen Veit, director of Adult Protective Services, talked about the overarching goal of protecting seniors from harm – “to be able to remain as independent as possible and as safe as possible.”
Some indicators of elder abuse may include an older adult appearing fearful, anxious, or isolated. There may be physical injuries, or it may appear that the person is neglecting his or her personal care. Other indicators might include missing possessions, financial transactions that are out of the ordinary or sudden changes to a will or property title. Risk of abuse can be mitigated by making certain financial, medical, and legal affairs are in order, also by checking in with those at-risk elders.
If you suspect abuse of an older adult, call Wood County’s Adult Protective Services hotline at 419-354-9669 to make a report. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
