Meeting Date: June 2, 2025
Title
World Elder Abuse Awareness Proclamation
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Summary:
summary
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated each year on June 15th to highlight one of the worst manifestations of ageism and inequality in society, elder abuse. WEAAD was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2011, following a request by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, who first established the commemoration in June 2006.
Elder abuse can be financial, emotional, physical, and sexual. It also includes people who are neglected and those who neglect themselves. Social isolation, financial or emotional stress, and dementia can make a senior vulnerable to abuse.
The consequences of elder abuse are grave: older adults who are abused are twice as likely to be hospitalized, four times as likely to go into nursing homes, and three times as likely to die. While studies show that 60% of abusers are family members, abuse can happen in any setting: in the adult’s own home or a senior living community.
It is requested that the Rutherford County Commissioners proclaim June, World Elder Abuse Awareness Month in order to bring these issues to the community’s attention.
A copy of the proclamation is on the following page.
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Budget:
N/A
Contact Information:
Delores Hunt, DSS Director
delores.hunt@rutherfordcountync.gov <mailto:delores.hunt@rutherfordcountync.gov>
828-287-6171
Recommended Motion:
recommended action
Approve proclamation.