Mississippi's Department of Human Services says the number of calls to report elder abuse is on the rise.
Sandra McClendon with the Mississippi Department of Human Services says they average 300 reports of elderly abuse per month. She says that number has increased 11 percent over the last four months. Complaints include, neglect, physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse. McClendon says they focus on seniors who are in their homes. They have 48 hours after they receive a call to make a home visit.
"If we go there, knock on their door and they don't want anything to do with the worker and they won't talk to them. We don't have any recourse. We can't force our way into the home. But if we feel like that elder for what ever reason might be in danger, of course we get in touch with law enforcement for them to come," said McClendon.
Victims of elder abuse may be afraid to speak up or embarrassed. The National Center for Elder Abuse, reports in 60 percent of cases the abusers are family members. Caregivers also victimize the elderly. McClendon says every day 10,000 Americans turn 65. She expects calls to increase by 50 percent in three years. Mississippi's Attorney General's office has two units that investigate elder abuse; one for homes, the other for facilities. Treasure Tyson is with the agency. She says each unit receives several thousand calls per year.
"People need to be aware of who is providing care. They need to be real vigilante to watch out for those they love. Talk to them. Interview the people who are going to be provide care spend some time around them.
Tyson says signs of abuse include bruising, injuries, illnesses that go untreated and weight loss. Complaints can be reported on the attorney general's website. A hotline number is available on MDHS's website. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Elder Abuse Hotline: (844) 437-6282
