Elder Abuse Awareness Month
Proclamation
Whereas, Allegany County seniors are valued, contributing members of society, imparting a wealth of experience and wisdom in our communities; and
Whereas, 2025 marks the 20th Anniversary of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Its recognition will foster a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older adults; and
Whereas, each year an estimated 5 million, or 1 in 10 older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation; and
Whereas, for each case of elder abuse that is reported, experts believe that nearly 14 cases go unreported; and
Whereas, Allegany County’s seniors deserve to live safely with dignity, and as independently as possible, with the support they need; and
Whereas, elder abuse is most often defined as any act that harms a senior or jeopardizes their health or welfare; and
Whereas, eliminating abuse to older persons is each community’s responsibility; the County of Allegany is concerned about the risk to our older residents who suffer from neglect or are victims of financial, emotional, or physical abuse; and
Whereas, all our residents should watch for signs of abuse such as physical trauma, withdrawal, depression, anxiety, fear of family members, friends, or caregivers;
Now therefore, in recognition of the Allegany County Consortium of Elder Abuse Prevention Committee and the many programs serving the elderly throughout Allegany County, I, W. Brooke Harris, Chairman of the Allegany County Board of Legislators, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM the month of June 2025 as ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS MONTH and June 15, 2025, as ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY and urge all citizens to commit to building safer communities for our elderly residents.
