Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn
Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn
State and local officials in Montana have reported an increase in elder abuse cases for the second consecutive year. The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) disclosed that approximately 4,900 Montanans were victims of elder abuse in 2021, a rise from 4,500 in 2020. This trend was discussed during a World Elder Awareness Day event at the Bank of Rockies.
Several organizations, including the Bank of the Rockies, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, City of Helena, AARP, DPHHS, Montana Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC), collaborated to address this issue. Governor Greg Gianforte and local officials issued proclamations supporting World Elder Abuse Awareness.
The National Council on Aging states that one in ten Americans over 60 have experienced elder abuse. "Every year, abuse and exploitation rob older Americans of $3 billion — and this is only the amount reported," said Tim Summers, AARP Montana State Director. He emphasized that such crimes can be committed by strangers or trusted individuals like family members.
Elder abuse includes neglect, physical, sexual or emotional abuse, and financial exploitation. Adult Protective Services (APS) aims to protect vulnerable adults through support from various programs. APS reports an increase in referrals related to physical abuse or neglect from 9,853 in 2021 to 11,557 in 2022.
Barb Smith from DPHHS highlighted signs of abuse such as isolation and unexplained injuries. "We need to educate and encourage the public to report such signs," she stated.
Financial exploitation remains a significant concern with victims losing an average of $120,000 nationally. Mike Grove from Bank of the Rockies stressed the importance of partnerships between stakeholders and the financial industry to combat this issue.
Jennell Huff from Bank of the Rockies underscored staff training's role in protecting customers. "Elder justice issues are a multi-generational issue," she noted.
Officials recommend preparing legal documents like estate planning ahead of emergencies to prevent financial exploitation. Resources such as a tip sheet by AARP are available for elder abuse prevention information.
To report elder abuse or neglect, contact Adult Protective Services at 1-844-277-9300 or visit www.aps.mt.gov.
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