June is recognized as World Elder Abuse Awareness month. Communities throughout the world have used this month to raise the visibility of elder abuse by sharing information about abuse, neglect, and exploitation in later life. It also seeks to understand the unique challenges and opportunities presented by an aging population and brings together senior citizens, and their caregivers, national and local government, faith based institutions, academics, and the private sector to exchange ideas about how to best reduce incidents of financial abuse toward elders, increase reporting of such abuse, and develop elder friendly policies.
According to estimates by the World Health organization, by 2050 the global population of people over the age of 60 will exceed the number of younger people. This data also suggests that 4 to 6 percent of elderly suffer from some form of abuse, a large percentage of which goes unreported. Based on the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the largest demographics of Miami Gardens residents – over 22% – are 55 years of age or older. The purpose of the Elderly Affairs Advisory Committee is to advise the City Council on matters relating to senior citizens, to promote and support senior-oriented special events and collaborative efforts that meet the needs of seniors, and to serve as an advocacy body on behalf of older adults in the community. The EAAC encourages residents to recognize the problem of elderly abuse and work with our City Council to create policies that foster respect for elders and provide them the tools to continue being productive citizens.
Please join us on Wednesday, June 18,, 2014 inside of the council chambers at City Hall from 10:30am – 1:00pm as we host our second annual Elder Financial Abuse Awareness Symposium. There will be a host of resources distributed and guest speakers, including Clyde Fleming form the Alliance for Aging. Light refreshments will be provided.
For more information, please contact staff liaison: Hilary Marshall: (305) 622-8062.
