Today is Elder Abuse Awareness Day
New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez issued a proclamation that today, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, as reported in the Albuquerque Journal.
Although elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional and mental abuse, today's proclamation also recognizes that many elderly New Mexico residents are at risk for financial exploitation. The New Mexico Securities Division has established the website www.redflagsnm.com, to help New Mexicans prevent and report investment fraud.
The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department has published a very helpful fact sheet on elder abuse which includes many warning signs to look for, and also ways to prevent elder abuse.
If you are concerned and suspect the physical, mental, emotional or financial abuse of an elderly New Mexican, call Adult Protective Services at 1-866-654-3219 (in-state) or 1-505-476-4912 (out of state). To report suspected abuse in a nursing home or long-term care facility, call the New Mexico Department of Health at 1-800-752-8649.
