State Urges Residents to Protect Seniors During Elder Abuse Awareness Month

As Louisiana observes Elder Abuse Awareness Month this June, state officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and help protect older adults who may be vulnerable to abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.

According to the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs, one in four Louisianans is age 60 or older, making Louisiana home to one of the Largest Senior Populations in the South. With that population expected to continue growing, advocates say protecting elderly residents has become more important than ever.

Ebony Thomas-Phillips, Program Manager for Louisiana Elderly Protective Services (EPS), said the agency receives more than 5,000 reports annually involving suspected Elder Abuse and neglect. Many of those cases involve financial exploitation or self-neglect among older adults.

“It is important that we protect adults aged 60 years or older who are unable to protect themselves from being abused or neglected,” Thomas-Phillips said. “Elders are abused in various ways: physically, sexually, emotionally, and financially. They can be neglected by caregivers or themselves.”

Elder Abuse can take many forms, including physical violence, emotional intimidation, isolation, sexual exploitation, withholding medications or essential care, and the misuse or theft of an older adult’s money or property.

“There is no greater service than to halt or interrupt acts of abuse and neglect against an elder adult,” Thomas-Phillips said. “Every person deserves their dignity and right to self-determination, no matter their age.”

State Officials are encouraging caregivers, healthcare professionals, neighbors, church members, bank employees, friends, and family members to report any signs of suspected abuse or neglect. Reports can be made anonymously through the Elderly Protective Services Hotline.

Thomas-Phillips emphasized that citizens do not need proof before making a report.

“To be an elder advocate, all you need to do is report suspected abuse or neglect; you don’t have to prove it,” she said. “If you see bruises, black eyes, bed sores, dirty clothing, malnourished or unclean appearance, or notice the individual is living without electricity or needed medications, let our trained staff investigate.”

Approximately one in 10 reports received by EPS are considered high-priority cases requiring immediate intervention. In those situations, the agency works closely with local law enforcement and community partners to ensure seniors receive protection and needed services.

Residents who suspect Elder Abuse or neglect are encouraged to call the free Elderly Protective Services Hotline at (833) 577-6532 or (225) 342-0144.

“See or suspect something, then make the call,” Thomas-Phillips said. “Your call could protect a senior citizen.”