The Adult Protective Services team of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Senior Services set up a booth at the Round House Café on Wednesday, June 15, to help spread awareness about elder abuse. The team provided information on the services that are provided to Community members who are facing elder abuse. 

“Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day,” said Adult Protective Services Social Worker II Adrian Doctor. “We are here to inform the seniors that every June there is a day for them. Many people don’t know there are services that help those who are facing abuse. We are here to … [provide] them with not only some fun incentives, but also a lot of information on local and state resources to help protect seniors from elder abuse.”

The Adult Protective Services team helps to investigate cases of neglect, exploitation and abuse. Social workers assist clients with getting signed up for benefits, requesting home-delivered meals and arranging for additional services from the Community. 

Anyone can report a concern regarding a vulnerable elder or adult. Here are some signs to watch for: 

Signs of Abuse 

• Unexplained injuries or behavior

• Fearfulness of a person or situation

• Isolation, being left unattended

• Emotional, verbal and spiritual effects

Signs of Neglect/Self-Neglect

• Sudden decline in personal hygiene care

• Untreated health/medical conditions or injuries related to self-neglect 

• Unsafe living conditions

Signs of Exploitation 

• Missing possessions or property 

• Sudden transfer of money, forged checks

• Undue influence or coercion in financial matters

“If there is a concern for an elder in the Community, please report it; it’s confidential. Once we get a referral, we jump on it right away and try to make contact with the victim and get them the assistance they need,” said Doctor.