What is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is a universal problem and is prevalent everywhere.

Elder abuse affects elders of all socio-economic groups, cultures, and races. It can occur anywhere and by anyone and may not be noticeable. It can occur in a person’s home, in long-term care, and in residential facilities. It’s hiding in plain sight because we aren’t being educated and trained to recognize it.

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Elder Abuse Prevalence

  • Nearly 6 million cases of elder abuse were reported in 2012
  • 100,000 cases were reported in Michigan
  • Adults 60 and older comprise 15% of the population and account for nearly 30% of fraud victims
  • 66% of perpetrators are family members

We received support from the Aging and Adult Services Agency (AASA) to develop an elder abuse prevention program training and education network. Its effectiveness is predicated on research data and critical elements of establishing relationships with faith-based organizations in urban areas with dense minority populations. Also, establishing a coalition infrastructure to collaborate among network members who will engage in a strong commitment to its purpose by formalizing procedures to identify and report, and to clearly identify the program objectives to bring about efficacy. These initiatives will be the core elements in building a successful community network in combating elder abuse.

In 2017, we launched a pilot project to raise awareness and promote the prevention of elder abuse through an alliance of faith-based organizations (Greater Burnette Baptist Church, Life Line Christian Center, and Second Ebenezer Church) by providing education and awareness training on the problems. Also to motivate individuals to speak openly with other members and religious leaders about their circumstances as aging adults.

In 2018, we partnered with the County Sheriff’s Office and Neighborhood Legal Services Michigan to develop and implement an Elder Abuse Prevention In-Action Collaborative to extend that training to Wayne County Sheriff Community Chaplains and mobilize the support to build a broader awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation to increase reporting of crimes committed to elderly and vulnerable adult through their networks of faith-based organizations.

Adult Protective Services MI-MVP Protocol

For more information and to obtain full copies, contact DAAA at (313) 446-4444.

Download Protocol PDF

PREVENT AND WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY

Download Resource Guide

View the DAAA Community Conversation with Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy held on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2020

Watch Video