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Elder abuse is a deeply concerning issue that plagues our South Florida community. The mistreatment of our senior citizens and most vulnerable populations is not only contained in physical abuse but can be emotional and, especially, financial in nature.
Financial abuse is becoming a widespread issue, where some family members and caretakers exploit the trust placed in them by their elderly relatives. Oftentimes, this form of abuse goes entirely unnoticed. Many seniors suffer in silence and are ashamed or afraid to report the abuse, specifically when the abuser is a family member or a close friend.
I am a lifelong champion for senior issues and continue to encourage our elders to seek assistance and protect themselves against exploitation. I partnered with State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava to create an Elder and Vulnerable Abuse (EVA) Work Group.
The formation of this group is aimed at preventing incidents of abuse against the elderly and disabled in Miami-Dade County and providing resources to the most vulnerable population. As chair of the Work Group, I hope to address the exploitation of these individuals by giving a voice to the voiceless.
This summer, charges were filed against two local women involved in the exploitation of a vulnerable, elder Miami-Dade resident with dementia. The two women, one of whom was working as a receptionist at a doctor’s office, stole money from the resident’s bank account and attempted to steal his home. Criminal charges also were filed against a home health services aide and an associate in the exploitation of a 97-year-old Miami-Dade resident.
These forms of fraud and abuse are just a few examples of the many cases we are tackling through this Work Group.
Sadly, Florida ranks second in the nation for the number of victims of crime against those age 60 and older, while Miami-Dade County ranks No. 1 in the state. The EVA Work Group creates a mechanism for people to report crimes or mistreatment by fostering an environment of trust and compassion. Our seniors are the pillars of our society, and they deserve our respect, care, and support.
If you have witnessed or have reason to believe someone is facing abuse, neglect, or exploitation, please contact the Elder and Vulnerable Adult Exploitation Unit at 786-804-6723. Unit staff and investigators will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure elderly victims receive the justice they deserve.
My passion is to serve our community by providing them with access to resources. Please contact my office at 305-820-8424 if I can ever be of service. We are always ready to serve. Most importantly, it’s all our duty to protect our seniors because they are a glimpse into the future and a perfect example of whom we will be one day.
Please send email to me at District13@miamidade.gov.
Sen. René García is the Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 13.
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