Brandon Twp.- Learn how to protect yourself or elderly loved one during a program planned for this Wednesday.
‘Elder abuse/older adult safety issues? will be presented by the Oakland County Health Division from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., April 22, at the library, 304 South St.
‘We’ll talk about the different forms of elder abuse? mental abuse, verbal abuse, physical abuse, financial exploitation,? said Mary Strobe, OCHD program director for outreach services and RN. ‘These can occur anywhere, everywhere, all the time.?
Financial exploitation, the taking of money or property, is the most prominent form of elder abuse, she notes. Older adults are vulnerable because they may be more trusting. They may also be victimized by family members or others they know and trust and abuse of any kind can occur regardless of whether an elderly person is living independently and across all economic classes.
Strobe advises individuals to keep a close eye on their finances.
‘If you’re having difficulty with your memory, find a trusted person to assist you with your finances,? she said. ‘Don’t share all of your information, it’s your business, keep it to yourself or with someone you trust.?
Seniors who are being abused in any way may not feel they can report their abuser if it is a family member or someone they depend upon. It is up to others to check in on them.
‘If you have a family member being cared for by a sibling or cousin or someone else, see how they are doing,? said Strobe. ‘If there is any evidence of them not being cared for, try to talk to them alone, make sure they are OK.?
Strobe will also talk during the program about measures senior citizens can take to stay safe at home. Falls are a big risk for older adults and can be life-changing.
‘If you fall and break a hip or some other bone, it may mean you will become less independent, and it increases mortality risk,? she said. ‘Sometimes when you break a major bone, there are a cascade of things that can happen after that limit your mobility. It’s harder to recover when you’re older.?
Steps that can be taken to prevent falls include making sure there are clear paths in the home and discussing with a doctor the possibility of needing a cane or walker.
Strobe will also discuss other safety issues, including lighting, bathroom safety, exercise, medications, and fire prevention, as well as driving safety.
‘Driving isn’t an age issue, it’s an ability issue,? said Strobe. ‘There are people in their 90s who are safe drivers and people in their 60s who should not be on the road. It has to do with ability and health and planning ahead because there may be a time when you aren’t able to drive.?
To register for the ‘Elder abuse/older adult safety? program call the library at 248-627-1462 or go online at www.brandonlibrary.org