Orleans County recognizes ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’

Provided photo: Staff from the Orleans County Department of Social Services and the Office for the Aging wearing purple in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Press Release, Orleans County DSS and Office for the Aging

ALBION – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is this Saturday, June 15. The purpose of WEAAD is to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of elder persons by raising awareness.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day uses the color purple to honor both the victims and survivors of elder abuse.

June Seager, supervisor of Adult Protective Services in the Orleans County Department of Social Services, reminds the community that elder abuse affects people across all socioeconomic groups, cultures and races, and can occur anywhere.

“Elder Abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, financial exploitation, neglect and sexual abuse,” Seager said.  “That’s why we stress to people, don’t stand by, stand up against elder abuse!”

Report suspected abuse or mistreatment to adult protective or to law enforcement. To contact Adult Protective Services resident can:

• Make a referral to Orleans County APS by calling 585-589-7000

• Contact the Office of Children & Family Services (OCFS) Human Services Call Center for the Bureau of Adult Services Helpline at 1-844-697-3505 to leave a message for local Adult Protective Services, to obtain the phone number for local APS, or to obtain general information about APS.