Americans believe in justice for all, yet every year an estimated 5 million — or 1 in 10 older Americans — experience elder abuse, neglect or exploitation. The Ottawa County Task Force on Aging believes that we should build the social supports to prevent this abuse and keep everyone safe as we age.

The Ottawa County Task Force on Aging, along with the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners, Ottawa County Service Agencies and community members, ask the public to join in a local ceremony in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  This year’s theme “Lifting Up Voices 2019” focuses on the opportunity we all have to take action to protect older individuals by raising awareness about elder abuse, why it occurs, and what we can do to stop it.

To collectively support justice for all, the group ceremony will be held Friday June 14, at noon on the lawn of the Ottawa County Courthouse, 315 Madison St., Port Clinton.

Ottawa County Senior Resources, in collaboration with Ottawa County’s Adult Protective Services (APS), will be offering Lunch & Learn programs throughout the month of June at many local senior centers. This program will give more information about the services provided by Adult Protective Services, including what APS has the authority to investigate, statistics, mandated reporter rights and responsibilities and challenges that face Adult Protective Services in Ottawa County. Call Ottawa County Senior Resources or contact your local senior center for date and times of these presentations.

To report Elder Abuse, call the 24-hour Ohio Reporting Line at 1-855-644-6277.  To reach Ottawa County APS directly, call 419-707-8639. Remember, there’s no excuse for elder abuse.