June marks Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by older adults. As the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA), we are committed to protecting and empowering our senior community. This month, we aim to educate, advocate, and inspire action to prevent elder abuse in all its forms.
We partner with Texas Adult Protective Services (APS) and work in conjunction with community partners to help prevent abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of those who are elderly or have disabilities. Texans have a duty to protect people of all ages from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Elderly and disabled Texans are susceptible to becoming victims of these crimes. The Lone Star State is home to more than 3.3 million residents over the age of 65 and more than 1.7 million disabled adults, and we must work diligently to protect these vulnerable populations.
Join us this June in raising awareness and taking action against elder abuse. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006, to raise awareness worldwide about elder abuse. On this day, the world is encouraged to wear purple.
For information on how to help prevent or report elder abuse, visit www.dfps.texas.gov.