June is National Elder Abuse Awareness Month

        June is National Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and June 14 is Flag Day. In recognition of both, the Wood County Department of Job and Family Services, the Wood County Committee on Aging, and the City of Bowling Green are partnering to hold an event for the community.
        The joint event will take place Tuesday, June 14 at 10 a.m. at the Wood County Senior Center, 140 S. Grove St., Bowling Green. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple for elder abuse awareness.
        The event will kick off with Flag Day recognition beginning at 10 a.m. with a pause for “The Pledge of Allegiance,” and a Flag Day proclamation from the office of the Bowling Green Mayor.
        The presentation in recognition of Elder Abuse Awareness will begin following the Flay Day festivities and will include featured speaker Judge Dave Woessner, Wood County Court of Common Pleas – Probate Division, and proclamations from several local elected officials. Following the presentation, attendees are invited to visit with representatives from several local community resources that will be in attendance and enjoy light refreshments.
        In Wood County, there were 318 reports of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation in 2021, up from 253 reports in 2020. Reports of elder abuse are expected to rise as the population of those 60 years of age and over continues to grow.
        Some indicators of elder abuse may include an older adult appearing fearful, anxious or isolated. There may be physical injuries or it may appear that the person is neglecting his or her personal care. Other indicators might include missing possessions, financial transactions that are out of the ordinary or sudden changes to a will or property title. Risk of abuse can be mitigated by making certain financial, medical, and legal affairs are in order.
        If you suspect abuse of an older adult, you can call Wood County’s Adult Protective Services hotline at 419-354-9669 or 888-860-4136 to make a report. The line is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
        For information on programs and services, contact the Wood County Committee on Aging, Inc., at 419-353-5661, 800-367-4935 or wccoa.net.