Kankakee, IL – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, is observing Elder Abuse Awareness Day today, June 15, to support and protect vulnerable adults in Grundy and Kankakee Counties.
According to a Facebook post by Catholic Charities, staff in their Adult Protective Services program are trained to address abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect among individuals 60 and older, as well as disabled persons aged 18-59. The organization encourages those aware of individuals in unsafe environments to contact them at 815-933-7791 or the 24-hour hotline at 866-800-1409.
Elder abuse is a significant issue affecting millions of seniors nationwide. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), approximately 1 in 10 Americans aged 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse. However, only 1 in 24 cases are reported to authorities. Abuse can occur in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial, and it often goes unnoticed.