Thousands of adults who have disabilities are abused, neglected and exploited in Alabama each year.

To help raise awareness, communities and professionals across the nation and across the world unite annually in June to observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Month.

Activities in Chilton County included the signing of a proclamation by Probate Judge Robert M. Martin on Monday in the presence of community partners from the Department of Human Resources, home health and hospice agencies and Hatley Healthcare.

During June and throughout the year, these community partners promote “There’s no excuse for abuse.”

Older people in our communities need know they have rights, including a right to be safe, and to be treated with dignity and respect.

“Because the elderly are often dependent on others for their care and may become isolated, they are primary targets for abuse, neglect and exploitation,” said Marilyn Colson, director of the Chilton County Department of Human Resources. “Sadly, victims are most often abused, neglected and exploited by individuals who are known and trusted by the elderly person or who no longer have relatives that can provide care to them.”

“Our community partners can help by reporting suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation and by assisting DHR in arranging services to protect those individuals who cannot protect themselves,” said Tim Bryant, adult services senior social worker with DHR commented. “Our community partners are essential to assisting DHR in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the elderly.”

The Alabama Department of Human Resources is responsible for the investigation of adult abuse, neglect and exploitation. DHR also partners with over 30 agencies as members of the Alabama Council for the Prevention of Elder Abuse which works to raise awareness of elder abuse prevention.

In FY 2015, the Alabama Department of Human Resources investigated over 8,000 reports of suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults statewide, which included elderly persons.

To date, the Chilton County Department of Human Resources has been involved with 101 adult cases. This is already a 7-percent increase in the number of cases over the entire 2015 fiscal year, according to Bryant.

DHR asks residents to help the department protect the vulnerable who have contributed so much to our community. If you suspect mistreatment of an elderly person or an adult person who has disabilities, call Chilton County DHR at (205) 280-2000. Reports may also be made toll free to the Adult Abuse Hotline-1-800-458-7214 or online at aps@dhr.alabama.gov.