The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (June 13, 2015) – The Sullivan County Legislature has proclaimed June 15, 2015 to be Elder Abuse Awareness Day and urges all of the residents of Sullivan County to join in the efforts, not only on this day but always, to raise awareness and protect the elders in our community by fighting against abuse, neglect and exploitation.

“Our hope is that the declaration of Elder Abuse Awareness Day will increase public awareness on elder abuse and that our community will continue to pull together to help fight such despicable behavior,” said Scott Samuelson, Chairman of the Sullivan County Legislature.

"Increasing awareness is critical to protect our elderly. We all have a responsibility to report any suspicion of abuse of our most vulnerable population," said Cindy Kurpil Gieger, District 5 Legislator, Chair of the Health and Family Services Committee.

Elder abuse is a violation of human rights and according to the World Health Organization, a significant cause of illness, injury, loss of productivity, isolation and despair. The US Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living reports that only on in five crimes of abuse, neglect, and exploitation are ever discovered. “Seniors are a vital component of our County. As this population continues to increase we need to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect declaring June 15, 2015 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day draws awareness”, said Sullivan County Manager Joshua Potosek.

There were 27 cases of abuse reported in Sullivan County in the month of April, 2015 and Elder Awareness Day aims to focus attention on the problem of physical, emotional, and financial abuse of elders.

Sullivan County Acting Commissioner of Health & Family Services, Joseph Todora urges anyone that has concerns of elder abuse in Sullivan County to call the New York State Human Services Call Center at 1-844-697-3505. If someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.