June 15 Is Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Pasadena

Elderly Care (Photo – sabinevanerp)

By News Desk

At the June 12 Pasadena City Council meeting, Mayor Victor M. Gordo proclaimed June 15, 2023, Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Pasadena. Purple flags have been placed on the lawn of the Public Health Department to signify the number of abuses reported by Pasadena residents, and to honor those who have been affected by elder abuse.

“Elder abuse is a serious issue affecting one of the most vulnerable groups in our nation,” said Manuel Carmona, acting director of Pasadena Public Health Department. “Older adults deserve to live with dignity, security, and appreciation.”

In 2022, Pasadena Police Department received 31 reports of elder abuse in Pasadena. Elder abuse comes in many forms, including neglect or financial, emotional, sexual, or physical abuse. “We have a collective responsibility to protect senior residents by recognizing and reporting elder abuse when it occurs,” said Police Chief Eugene Harris. “Anyone with questions concerning elder abuse is urged to call the special victim unit supervisor, Sgt. Brian Bulaon, at (626) 744-3863.”

Help prevent and address elder abuse by reporting it to authorities as soon as it is suspected. This also includes reporting any suspected abuse pertaining to nursing homes and residential care facilities. Physical injury, neglect, and/or emotional or behavioral changes are all telltale signs of abuse that could be exhibited by a loved one and should compel you to take immediate action. 

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In 2006, the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations (UN) launched the first World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) in an effort to unite communities around the world in raising awareness about elder abuse. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for our communities to raise awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elders, and reaffirm our country’s commitment to the principle of justice for all.

To report elder abuse in Pasadena, call the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4241.

By doing all that we can to strengthen the social support structure, we can reduce social isolation, protect communities and families against elder abuse, and build a community that lives up to our promise of justice for all.

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June 15 Is Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Pasadena