June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month and June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. SeniorCare Inc. and several non-profit and civic organizations are holding special “Rolling Rallies” throughout the North Shore to increase awareness of this growing issue in our society.

10,000 people turn 65 in the US every day. This trend is going to continue for the next 20 years. Our demographics are shifting, and we now have more older people in the US than ever before. At the same time that the population is growing, we know that a startling number of older Americans face abusive situations. Every year an estimated 5 million, or 1 in 10, older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. And that’s only part of the picture: Experts believe that for every case of elder abuse or neglect reported, as many as 23.5 cases go unreported. In addition, it is believed that the situation has worsened during the pandemic with the need for social distancing.

Elder abuse and neglect and take on various forms. It can be physical, emotional/verbal, sexual, financial, neglect by a caregiver, or self-neglect. Elder abuse can occur anywhere – in the home, in nursing homes, or other institutions. It affects seniors across all socioeconomic groups, cultures, and races.

If you suspect abuse or self-neglect, don’t assume that someone has already reported it. In cases of immediate danger call 911. Otherwise, you can the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-922-2275.

SeniorCare, the Gloucester Council on Aging, and the Gloucester Police Department are holding a Rolling Rally to increase awareness of Elder Abuse this year. The rally will take place on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, and will begin at the former Friendly’s parking lot, 224 Washington Street in Gloucester, at 1pm.

Concerned citizens are invited to participate in this rally, and help to bring light to the horrendous crime of elder abuse. Decorate your car, bring your noise makers and come to the 224 Washington Street by 1pm on June 15 to join the rally and to show your support!  Road rally participants will be escorted through the City by the Gloucester Police Department.

In addition to the rolling rally, Gloucester City Hall will be illuminated in purple on June 15 in recognition of the issue of elder abuse.

SeniorCare is committed to identifying and stopping Elder Abuse!