As this country gets older, more elders are abused every day. National estimates are that between 1 million and 2 million elders experience neglect, exploitation, physical, financial, emotional or sexual abuse every year.

Only 1 in 5 instances of abuse are ever reported. All too often the abusers are not strangers, but someone that is known to the elder – even a "dutiful" caregiver. This makes the wrong all the worse.

These facts are a call to action for all of us. Spectrum Generations makes it its business to protect those that are most vulnerable – those who have a right to safety and dignity.

Most people think of the abused elderly person as a frail, incapacitated person who lives in a nursing home. The fact of the matter is it's more likely that the abused elder is someone who lives next door, or someone that you know in the community... someone you wouldn't think of as the "typical target" for abuse we all have in our mind's eye.

Someday that older person being abused could be you. It's time for us all to pay attention and help to make a change.

Spectrum Generations Meals on Wheels drivers are in people's homes on a regular basis, not only delivering meals, but looking out for the general welfare of our consumers, but we all need to recognize warning signs that might signal abuse.

Some of the common signs are bruises, broken bones, sudden withdrawal from normal activities and depression. When you see something suspicious, don't let yourself explain it away. Don't assume someone else has reported a suspicious situation.

Report potential elder abuse to the Maine Adult Protective Services Hot Line at 1-880-624-8404. If a vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, dial 9-1-1 or call the police.

Financial exploitation of older and disabled adults is another form of abuse. When our Consumer Information Specialists talk or meet with consumers because they are struggling to pay for necessities such as food, prescriptions or heating oil, they listen and read between the lines for sudden financial changes that don't fit the situation and may indicate someone is exploiting them financially.

Sometimes caregivers are so tired and exasperated they've lost their patience. There's no shame in recognizing it and reaching out. Admit it and ask for help.

Spectrum Generations Family Caregiver Support team can help caregivers better cope with the challenges of caring for a loved one with resources, caregiver training, support groups and respite care.

If you think you've been the victim of any kind of abuse, call the hotline or tell your doctor, your friend or someone else you trust. Don't keep it to yourself. You deserve to be safe and treated with dignity, no matter what.

Friday, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Spectrum Generations encourages you to take the time to educate yourself and take a personal oath to keep your eyes and ears open for possible abuse around you. Make this the year your actions and words make it clear – there is no excuse for elder abuse!