Hundreds of elder abuse cases reported in southeastern NC
RALEIGH, NC (WECT) - North Carolina social workers received nearly 20,000 reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation of elderly folks across the state in 2011.
The NC Department of Health and Human Services released numbers Friday. Locally, New Hanover County had the most reports at 787 last year. Brunswick County had 215 reports, while Columbus (190), Pender (133) and Bladen (68) rounded out the remaining southeastern North Carolina counties.
According to information from NC DHHS, there is no current law to allow for proactive, preventative measures when it comes to responding to allegations of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Governor Bev Perdue set aside $2.3 million in the budget for a pilot program for Adult Protective Services. The money will help local DSS boards start preventive measures for vulnerable adults.
Signs of elder abuse or abuse of an adult with a disability include:
- Bruises, burns, cuts, or scratches;
- Malnutrition;
- Untreated medical conditions;
- Unsafe or unsanitary housing;
- Mental anguish and distress;
- Mistrust toward others;
- Mismanaged property, finances or savings; and/or
- Inability to provide needed care.
NC DHHS supplied the information about signs of elder abuse.
You are asked to report any potential abuse to your county department of social services.
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