Organizations celebrate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Citizens and various organizations in the community gathered to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Friday at the North End Community Center.

According to the PEW Research Center, the oldest members of the baby boomer generation turned 65 in 2011.

In addition, 10,000 people will turn 65 per day in 2030. In other words, seven people will turn 65 per minute and one every 10 seconds.

Many of these seniors will deal with some sort of abuse during their life whether it be physical, mental, or emotional. Often, the abuse is caused by caregivers or even family members.

In order to bring awareness to this serious issue, the Elder Abuse Coalition of Yuma partnered with community organizations such as Yuma PD, Adult Protective Services and Sunset Community Center.

In addition to various seminars and time to connect, 50 purple balloons were released in memory of seniors that have suffered from abuse.

Because elderly citizens are the fastest growing population segment in the U.S., it is important to recognize signs of abuse and how to report it.

For more information on elderly abuse and how you can help, visit ncea.acl.gov