Wednesday, June 15, is Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Pasadena. City staff are encouraged to wear purple on June 15, add a message on the attached flyer sharing why you wear purple, and post photos to social media using the #PurpleWednesday hashtag.
In 2021, Pasadena Police Department received 39 reports of elder abuse in Pasadena, but research suggests that as few as 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse come to the attention of authorities. Purple flags have been placed at City Hall, Pasadena Public Health Department, and the Pasadena Senior Center to signify the number of abuses reported by Pasadena residents last year, and to honor those who have been affected by elder abuse.
In 2006, the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations (UN) launched the first World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). WEAAD serves as a call to action for communities to raise awareness about abuse, neglect and exploitation of elders, and reaffirm our country’s commitment to the principle of justice for all.
Each year, an estimated 5 million older adults are abused, neglected or exploited. Elder abuse can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences, and can result in serious financial loss. In the U.S., losses by victims of financial abuse are estimated to be at least $2.6 billion, according to the National Council on Aging.
Help prevent and address elder abuse by reporting it to authorities as soon as it is suspected. For more information, visit https://eldermistreatment.usc.edu/weaad-home/.