Governor Cox Proclaims World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY, June 15, 2023 (Newswire.com) - According to recent reports, at least 10 cases of elder abuse are reported each day in the state of Utah. With estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau indicating that nearly 17 percent of Utah's population will be over age 60 by the year 2030, this is a critical public health issue.

"Elder abuse is a nationwide issue", stated AARP Utah State Director, Alan Ormsby. "The rising numbers of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of our vulnerable adults are troubling and costly for Utah's citizens. By promoting awareness and engaging the community, Utah can work towards preventing elder abuse, supporting victims, and ensuring the well-being of older adults in the state."

Today's Utah Elder Abuse Awareness Virtual Conference brought together local experts to shine a spotlight on the pervasive issues of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation among vulnerable adults. Cohosted by Utah's Division of Aging and Adult Services, AARP Utah, Utah Commission on Aging, the Alzheimer's Association Utah Chapter, Utah 211, Seniors Blue Book, and Utah's Association of Area Agencies on Aging, the free event was an opportunity for Utahns to gather to discuss best practices for preventing and responding to the maltreatment of older and vulnerable adults in this state and across the world.

"In 2022 alone, Adult Protective Services investigated more than 4000 cases involving allegations of vulnerable adults being mistreated," said Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox. "It takes the combined knowledge, tools and strategies from many sectors such as social services, law, medicine, psychology, finance, and law enforcement to address the complexities of elder mistreatment and advance effective solutions."

Following his remarks, Governor Cox proclaimed June 15, 2023, as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Utah and encouraged all communities to recognize and celebrate older adults and their ongoing contributions to the success and vitality of our country.

Attendees at today's event also heard from:

• Nubia Peña, Director of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs
• Douglas Crapo, Director of White Collar Civil Enforcement, Utah Attorney General's Office
• Katie Hart, Director of Consumer Protection Division, Utah Department of Commerce
• Kevin Luke, Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation SWAT
• Patrick W. Troumbley, MS, CSCS, Chief Operating Officer, Seniors Blue Book Utah & Senior Expos

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call to action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

To report suspected abuse, notify the nearest law enforcement office or Utah Adult Protective Services Monday - Friday at 1-800-371-7897 or online.

Source: AARP Utah