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Russell County proclaims Elder Abuse Awareness Day

By Morgan Loy

Purple, historically, is a color associated with society's most influential individuals. Its notable rarity in nature lends the color its status as something that symbolizes wisdom and devotion.

Purple also shares another relation more connected to the previously mentioned than what first meets the eye, Elder Abuse Awareness.



I would like you to picture your grandparents, your parents, for a moment. I'm sure you remember particular quirks of theirs or stories that are retold every holiday season: Dad burning his eyebrows off grilling, Mom flooding the kitchen while doing dishes, Grandma and Grandpa teaching you how to can green beans while filling you up on oatmeal pies and root beer floats.

Whatever your memories might entail, they allow you to reminisce about your childhood and the family that shaped each moment. These individuals are now your elders, and as time creeps up upon the edges of their filled minds, you may realize that you must occupy the role of caregiver for them. As they age, your most beloved relatives become susceptible to malicious activity.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was admittedly not a day I had ever heard of before. June 15th held little meaning in my mind: it was another day that bled into the rest.

I do not believe myself to be over assuming when I say that most of the public thinks nothing of this day, either. Though, in reality, it holds a great deal of weight for not only the elders in our community but for every vulnerable citizen.

Elder abuse is a monster that reveals itself in various manners, and the perpetrators of this abuse and neglect come in countless forms: physical and verbal abuse at the hands of those who are supposed to care the most, scammers preying on those who do not know any better, those most in danger left in complete isolation. We cannot turn away from this painful truth, as we so often have. Instead, we must reveal it in all of its grim nature, despite the accountability it demands.

The situation surrounding these types of abuse is frightening, but it is not a hopeless cause. Many actions can take place to not only reach out a helping hand to those who may experience abuse but also to prevent this abuse from ever occurring. There are signs of abuse to watch for, such as physical injury, fearfulness, and unusual changes to bank accounts or wills. Recognizing these signs and others are key steps in defending the vulnerable individuals in your life. The wisdom that our elders hold can and must be preserved by devoting time and effort to securing their wellbeing.

Purple, every shade and in many styles, dominated the Russell County Library this June 6th. Many members from the Lake Cumberland Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living, Lifeline, Intrepid, and the Senior Center gathered there to support Elder Abuse Awareness. A proclamation signed by Mayor Eddie Thomas and Judge-Executive Gary Robertson effectively recognized June 15th as Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Russell County.

This event was a step in the right direction in the fight against elder abuse. The protection of those in your life who are most at risk is vital for the future of our community. So, the next time you wear your particular favorite shade of purple, especially this June 15th, remember those people, the ones you must look out for. I know I certainly will.


This story was posted on 2022-06-15 04:24:37
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June 15th is Elder Abuse Awareness Day



2022-06-15 - Russell County, KY - Photo from Mandy Weston.
A proclamation signed by Mayor Eddie Thomas and Judge-Executive Gary Robertson recognized June 15th as Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Russell County. Purple, in every shade and in many styles, dominated the Russell County Library on June 6th at this gathering from the Lake Cumberland Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living, Lifeline, Intrepid, and the Senior Center working together to bring attention to Elder Abuse Awareness.

Pictured are: Tish West with Intrepid, LCADD Staff-Sherry Spoon, Jill Bertram, Makayla Shepard, Eva Sublett, Mandy Weston, Cristy Reynolds, Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas, Russell County Judge Executive Gary Robertson, Katy Roy with Lifeline, Amber Burton-LCADD Staff, Morgan Loy-LCADD Staff and Waylon Wright, LCADD Executive Director.

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