The Los Angeles County Aging and Disabilities Department is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Thursday. Parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, neighbors, and other loved ones may be experiencing unimaginable trauma unknown to those around them. Here’s how you can help:

 – LEARN about the warning signs of abuse, types of abuse, and how to report abuse. It is critical to learn how to identify, address, and prevent abuse to support our most vulnerable as we all age together. Learn more here.

 – REPORT abuse. LA County’s new Aging & Disabilities Department is home to 150+ social workers who uplift older adults, protect our most vulnerable, and deliver caring supportive services within local communities. If you’re concerned that someone you care about may be the victim of abuse, don’t be silent. Call our elder abuse hotline at 1-877-477-3646 to report abuse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit https://ad.lacounty.gov to learn more.

 – WEAR purple to spread awareness and encourage others to do the same. Show your support on social media! Snap a photo, share why you wear purple in support of elder abuse awareness, and post on social media with the hashtag #PurpleThursday.

The Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) is committed to creating an age-friendly Los Angeles County, where older adults can thrive and live free from abuse. Learn about our older adult services here.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. Access tools and tips to help spread awareness!