The Sconi

Attorney General Kaul recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

MADISON, Wis. – Attorney General Josh Kaul is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2024, by urging Wisconsin residents to be vigilant about the signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. He encourages reporting any instances of mistreatment to Wisconsin’s Elder Abuse Hotline at www.ReportElderAbuseWI.org or 1-833-586-0107.

“We must be proactive and collaborative in combating elder abuse,” said Attorney General Josh Kaul. “By learning about the signs of elder abuse, you’ll be better prepared to help prevent it.”

The World Health Organization defines elder abuse as “a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person.” It is a violation of human rights that can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences for older individuals.

According to Wisconsin’s Annual Elder Abuse and Neglect Report from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, in 2022 the highest occurring reason for a report was self-neglect, making up 47.5 percent of calls. This was followed by financial exploitation at 22 percent and neglect by others at 10.4 percent. In reports indicating that an elder at risk had died, 34.4 percent stated that the death was related to the incident of abuse.

Attorney General Kaul advises individuals who suspect they are victims or know someone who might be a victim of elder abuse to learn more about the signs at www.ReportElderAbuseWI.org and make a report through Wisconsin's Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-833-586-0107.