PRINCETON, N.J., June 18, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Carol Silver Elliott, President and CEO of the Jewish Home Family highlighted elder abuse as a serious social issue in the recent "Leading Thoughts" video interview with LeadingAge NJ President and CEO Michele Kent. Ms. Elliott recently joined the Board of Trustees of LeadingAge NJ.
"Elder abuse is a pervasive issue in our society," noted Elliott. "Nationally, we estimate between 3.5 and 5 million people are victims of elder abuse every year – a staggering statistic. Elder abuse is defined as an intentional act of harm at the hands of a trusted caregiver."
Asked about the contributing factors, Elliott explained, "I think the financial pressures of today's world and substance abuse often play a role. In almost one hundred percent of elder abuse cases, financial exploitation is either the beginning or the ending. But it's always part of the equation."
Noting the seriousness of an issue that often goes unreported, Kent asked what people should do about elder abuse.
"The most important thing is: see something, say something," responded Elliott, noting that people can reach out to Adult Protective Services (APS). Elliott also pointed to assistance provided by a growing national elder abuse shelter movement associated with the SPRiNG Alliance.
Click here for the full interview.
About LeadingAge NJ
LeadingAge NJ is the statewide association of not-for-profit senior care organizations and is dedicated to advancing quality aging services in New Jersey through advocacy, education, and fellowship. Founded in 1931, LeadingAge New Jersey and its members believe in affirming the enduring value of our elders to society, to family and to the community; promoting quality, stewardship and choice in aging services; advancing mission driven values, compassionate services and public trust; being accountable to those we serve; and developing ethical leadership.