Sarasota News Leader
June 7, 2013
Page 53
FREE EDUCATIONAL EVENT SET ON ELDER FRAUD AND EXPLOITATION
In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Community Alliance of Sarasota
Stakeholders in Aging Consortium will host
its second annual free educational forum on
elder fraud and exploitation prevention on
Friday, June 14, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The
Salvation Army Fellowship Hall, 1701 S. Tuttle
Ave., Sarasota.
continues. "Additionally, it is believed that seniors lose an average of $145,000 each year
from fraud committed by family, friends, caregivers and others."
"Every year an estimated 2.1 million older
Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect
or exploitation," the release points out. "That
is only part of the picture. Experts believe that
for every case of elder abuse or neglect reported, as many as five cases go unreported,"
it adds.
Even if it is determined no crime has been
committed, counseling or other services
may be suggested. To report suspected
abuse, contact the 24-hour toll-free hotline:
1-800-96ABUSE.
"Remember, elder abuse can happen to anyone and can occur anywhere — in a person's
own home, in nursing homes or assisted living
facilities, even in hospitals," said Anne Rid"This year's event will focus on educating ings, director of the Guardianship Services in
community members and professionals who Sarasota at Lutheran Services Florida, in the
work with older adults about the reality of el- release.
der fraud and exploitation," a news release
"It affects elders across all socioeconomic
says.
groups, cultures and races. Based on available
Among the topics to be presented are the fol- information, women, elders who are homelowing: how to identify potential abuse; what bound or isolated and individuals ages 80 and
to do when financial abuse is suspected; avail- older are most at risk," Ridings added in the
able resources; the legal process of handling release.
fraud and exploitation cases; key elements in
Perhaps most surprising is that the mistreatexploitation cases; and tips from community
ment is usually perpetrated by the individual's
organizations dedicated to elder abuse and exown family members, the release points out.
ploitation. Speakers will include community
experts from law enforcement, the Florida "If you suspect elder abuse, report it," Ridings
Department of Children and Families' Adult said in the release. "Act to protect seniors by
Protective Services Program, the State Attor- bringing suspected abuse to the attention of
ney's Office, law firms specializing in seniors' the appropriate authorities. You do not need
issues and several local organizations that ad- to prove that abuse is occurring; it is up to
vocate for the safety and well being of older the professionals to investigate your concerns
adults, the release adds.
and suspicions."
"The MetLife Mature Market Institute estimates the cost of financial abuse of the elderly is at least $2.9 billion a year, a number that
may be grossly underestimated," the release
A continental breakfast and a boxed lunch
will be provided for registered attendees at
the forum. Space is limited. To register, visit www.elderexploitationsrq2013.eventbrite.
com, contact Raquel Sikes at Raquel_sikes@
doh.state.fl.us or call 861-2575.
