Coalition works to prevent elder abuse and exploitation

Abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of older adults and other vulnerable individuals happens ? even in our close-knit, family-focused state.

Last year, the North Dakota Department of Human Services received 1,737 calls reporting suspected abuse, neglect or fi-nancial exploitation of vulnerable adults. Individuals involved typically include total strangers, such as in the Jamaican lottery scam situation, and trusted individuals in positions of authority and decision-making roles, including family members.

The West Central Vulnerable Adult Coalition recognized Elder Abuse Awareness Day by sharing information about how people can stay safe, avoid being scammed, and access intervention services on June 20 in conjunction with the musicians association's summer concert series in downtown Mandan.

Governor Doug Burgum signed a proclamation recognizing Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is available online at www.nd.gov/dhs/info/pubs/docs/aging/proclamation-elderabuse- awareness-day.pdf.

Bill Willis of the department's Aging Services Division said community awareness is invaluable to preventing abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults.

"Prevention involves looking out for one another, and we encourage neighbors, friends, family members and service providers to say something if they see something," he said.

To report suspected abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of older adults and other vulnerable adults, people should call toll-free 1-855-462-5465 (1-855-GO2LINK), or report online at www.nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/reporting.html. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger and needs emergency services.

The Department of Human Services' Aging Services Division administers the Vulnerable Adult Protective Services program, which addresses the safety of vulnerable adults who are at risk of harm due to the presence or threat of abuse, neglect or exploitation. The program is offered statewide through the department's regional human service centers or through local partner agencies. Program details, including information about reporting, are available online at www.nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/vulnerable.html.