World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15, which is important locally and globally to voice opposition to any form of abuse of older generations. It is a call to action to raise awareness about abuse, neglect and exploitation of elders. It is estimated that one in 10 older Americans are victims, but experts believe it is significantly under reported.

As advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Office takes allegations and signs of resident abuse and neglect very seriously. According to State and Federal Law, long-term care residents have the right to be free of abuse and neglect. They have a right to expect long-term care facilities to provide a safe, home-like environment where they receive quality and compassionate care.

It’s important to remember that abuse and neglect is not just initiated by the facility or their staff. In many cases residents can be abused and or neglected by their family, visitors to the facility, or other residents. In addition, this abuse and neglect cannot only happen in a long-term care facility but also in other medical settings and in the home and or community. Some common signs of abuse and neglect may include the following: unexplained injuries, verbally aggressive and controlling caregiver, sudden, unexplained changes in behavior, and elders whose basic needs aren’t being provided for by someone who controls their finances. The presence of one or more of these and other red flags of abuse and neglect may be a cause for concern.

State and Federal law mandates that anyone in Oklahoma who receives a report of abuse or neglect, has reasonable suspicion of, or has observed abuse or neglect should report it immediately to Adult Protective Services (APS), the facility administrator, the State Department of Health and or local law enforcement. APS can be contacted at 1-800­-522-3511 or online at www.OKHotline.org. If you observe neglect or abuse, report it immediately.

Together we can make a difference in the lives of long-term care residents. If you have any questions or concerns regarding long term care issues or the ombudsman program, please feel free to contact your local ombudsmen at Eastern Oklahoma Development District (EODD) Area Agency on Aging at 918-682-7891.