This website is best viewed in a browser that supports web standards.

Skip to content or, if you would rather, Skip to navigation.

KXCV-KRNW


News Brief

June 15, 2018DES MOINES, Iowa |  By: INS

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Older adults lose nearly three billion dollars a year through financial abuse, and that's one reason Congress made prevention a national mission by passing the Elder Justice Act in 2010. The mission is being honored today with the 13th annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Anthony Carroll with AARP Iowa says the quality of life for an older adult is severely affected when they become a victim of abuse.

Elder abuse is so staggering, the US Department of Justice estimates one in 10 seniors is a victim. Carroll says the most common form is financial exploitation, and the person is often taken in by someone they trust.

In 2014, Iowa lawmakers passed legislation to improve power of attorney laws, and AARP encourages those who are aging to make sure these types of guardianship papers are current.