COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has launched an elder abuse awareness website aimed at educating the public and encouraging the reporting of crimes against older adults.
State officials estimate that one in 10 Ohioans age 60 or older will experience some form of abuse, including financial, physical, or emotional harm. Even more concerning, experts believe only about one in five cases is ever reported, allowing many abusers to continue harming vulnerable victims.
Advocates say older victims often stay silent out of fear of retaliation, embarrassment, dependence on an abuser for care, isolation, or uncertainty about where to seek help.
“Elder abuse is an epidemic — a terrible crime that preys on some of the most vulnerable in our society,” Yost said. “But Ohio seniors deserve our protection. It’s up to us to shield them from those who want to harm them. And by educating ourselves, spreading the word, and staying vigilant, we can shine a light on this problem.”
The website provides information on the different types of elder abuse, warning signs to watch for, and steps Ohioans can take to help protect seniors. The attorney general’s office urges residents to regularly check in on older family members and friends, encourage them to remain active, and speak directly with seniors if abuse is suspected.
Suspected elder abuse can be reported by calling 1-855-OHIO-APS or by visiting ElderJustice.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov.
