06/24/2026
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and June 15th specifically is WEAAD (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day). North Carolina has many resources available to the public, however aside from 911 for immediate danger, APS (Adult Protective Services) are local resources available. If you suspect abuse, neglect or exploitation of an older adult, reports can be taken by your local Department of Social Services / APS Unit.
https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services
Take Action Challenge! We need everyone to educate one another about the impact of elder abuse and the pervasiveness of ageism in our culture. Through community outreach and statewide engagement, we can raise this social issue to a worldwide priority that must be addressed and prevented.
Join the Challenge – List 6 facts about Elder Abuse. Share 1 thing you can do to prevent Elder Abuse. Tag 5 people to participate in this challenge. We’ll start this challenge:
1. Approximately 1 in 10 adults over the age of 60 have experienced elder abuse.
2. Elder abuse can be in the form of physical abuse; mental abuse; emotional or psychological abuse; financial abuse; or neglect.
3. An analysis of calls to the National Center on Elder Abuse resource line found that family members were the perpetrators in nearly 47% of incidents.
4. Social isolation and mental impairment are two factors that make older adults vulnerable to abuse.
5. Elder abuse often goes unreported due to fear or physical and mental impairments.
6. You can take a stand against elder abuse! Educating older adults, professionals, caregivers, and your community on elder abuse is critical in prevention.
Durham County District Attorney's Office, Johnston County District Attorney's Office, Anson, Richmond, & Scotland District Attorney’s Office, District Attorney Jeff Nieman, District Attorney's Office, 1st Prosecutorial District of NC
