The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Bureau for
Children and Families (BCF) joins the West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services
in recognizing June 15, 2015, as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
“Every year, an estimated five million Americans are victims of elder
abuse, neglect or exploitation,” said BCF Commissioner Nancy Exline. “According
to the National Center on Elder Abuse, ninety-three percent of elder abuse
cases go unreported each year. Events like these can help educate individuals
on ways to identify and prevent potential harm to our family and friends.”
Several events will be held in recognition of this day. The first event is scheduled for June 17,
2015, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Columbia Gas, 1700 MacCorkle Ave SE, in
Charleston. Speakers include John Frisby of the West Virginia State Auditor’s
Office and Georgia J. Anetzberger, Ph.D., consultant in private practice and
Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at Case Western
Reserve University. In addition, the Ron Nestor award will be presented to an
individual who has advocated ending elder abuse and has helped raise awareness
in West Virginia.
Dr. Anetzberger also will be present at the second event, scheduled for June
18, 2015, from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., at the Days Inn Conference Center, 350 Days
Drive in Flatwoods.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was first launched in June 2006
by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World
Health Organization at the United Nations.
The purpose of WEADD is to provide an opportunity for communities around
the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older
persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic
processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.
Elder abuse refers to any knowing, intentional or negligent act by a
caregiver, or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a
vulnerable adult. Anyone may make a report of adult abuse or neglect. Known or suspected cases of abuse or neglect
should be immediately reported to the DHHR Centralized Intake Center at
1-800-352-6513.
Allison C. Adler, DHHR Communications Director, Allison.C.Adler@wv.gov, 304-558-7899