Articles

By: Kristyn Merkle, Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan

Right now, some older adults in our community are isolated, vulnerable, and in some cases, unsafe in their own homes. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time when we shine a light on the prevalence of abuse that affects far too many older Americans. Here in Michigan, more than 73,000 older adults are victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation each year. Many are harmed by someone they know. Most never report it. Behind every one of those cases is a real person, someone’s parent, neighbor, or friend.

Protecting older adults requires a strong network of programs and supports. These include Elder Abuse Prevention initiatives, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, and evidence-based wellness programs that help reduce falls, manage chronic conditions, and combat isolation. These services aren’t extras, they are essential to safety, dignity, and quality of life.

In my work with the Kent County Elder Abuse Coalition, I’ve seen what happens when older adults don’t have access to these supports. It can mean fewer safety checks, fewer trusted advocates, and fewer opportunities to intervene before abuse occurs. It also places more strain on family caregivers, increases emergency room visits, and leads to more premature placements in nursing homes.

Programs funded through the Older Americans Act and Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services make it possible for older adults to remain in their homes and communities where we know they want to be. In 2023 alone, Michigan’s senior nutrition programs delivered more than 10 million meals, helping to prevent malnutrition and reduce social isolation. In-home support, transportation, and wellness education all help make daily life safer and more manageable for thousands of Michiganders.

These programs also make economic sense. For every dollar invested in community-based care, approximately $3 is saved in Medicaid and long-term care costs. Meanwhile, financial exploitation is a growing threat. In just one year, banks reported over $27 billion in suspicious activity targeting older Americans. Without proper supports and legal advocacy, many victims never recover what they’ve lost.

As our population ages (by 2030, one in five Americans will be over 65) the demand for services will only increase. Ensuring these programs remain strong and accessible is critical to building communities where older adults can live safely and with dignity.

This Elder Abuse Awareness Month let’s recommit to protecting and valuing older adults. It will take all of us, lawmakers, caregivers, professionals, and neighbors to build a safer, more supportive environment for aging.

Let’s act on what we already know: prevention works, support matters, and every older adult deserves to feel safe.

Want to learn more and get involved in advocacy? Contact AAAWM Advocacy and Planning Director, Sheri Harris 616-222-7015 or email [email protected]