Donning the color purple -

USA (SANEPR.com) June 13, 2008 -- Old Colony Elderly Services (OCES), a private, non-profit agency that provides seniors, families and caregivers with valuable resources and services, will recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Monday, June 16, 2008.

In acknowledging the day, OCES strives to raise awareness of this important issue among staff and others within the community. OCES staff will observe the day by wearing purple, the color designated for this cause, and encourage the general public to don purple attire in support.

Elder abuse is widespread and often goes unreported. In fact, for every reported case of elder abuse, neglect, exploitation or self-neglect, five more are unreported.
There may be more than 5 million financial abuse victims each year, with the overall reporting of financial exploitation estimated at only 1 in 25 cases.

Additional facts about elder abuse
Victims of elder abuse often live with their abusers and two of three abusers are family members. The majority of elder abuse victims are females age 75 or older.

“Elder abuse is very serious and unfortunately, an increasing number of vulnerable adults living with abuse go unnoticed. We are asking the general public to help us make a positive impact by reporting suspected abuse. If you know an elder who is being neglected, mistreated or harmed in any way, we urge you to contact our Protective Services staff,” said Diana L. DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

To report elder abuse, call OCES’ Protective Services at 508-584-1561.

About Old Colony Elderly Services
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elderly Services (OCES) is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

OCES serves the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman. The agency has 110 employees and operates more than 12 programs serving elders, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oc-elderly.org