On May 11, ElderCare Rights Alliance held its first annual Celebration of Older Americans Month and Elder Abuse Awareness event. Activities, speakers and unveiling of the winning poster were all focused on raising awareness about the growing problem of elder abuse in Minnesota.

The ElderCare Rights Alliance, a nonprofit resident rights-based organization, has been advocating for quality care in the long-term care system in Minnesota since 1972. Its mission is to advance principles of justice and dignity in long-term care through education, advocacy and action. ECRA has recently become an affiliate member of the Minnesota Senior Federation.

A state-wide “Awareness through Art” campaign was conducted over the winter, in which ECRA, in collaboration with the Minnesota State Arts Board, asked Minnesotans to submit artwork with a theme of elder abuse prevention. Two winning artists’ work were selected and incorporated into posters that are being distributed statewide to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult day care programs, senior centers and other locations. Artists Heart Warrior Chosa from Ely and Melinda Kordich from Shakopee each submitted winning art work.

Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, self-neglect or financial exploitation. Elder abuse can take place whether elders reside in their home, in an assisted living setting, or in a nursing home. The national Center on Elder Abuse released a report that states 55 percent of elder abuse reported is neglect and self-neglect.

What can you do about elder abuse? Know the warning signs of elder abuse. Keep a watchful eye out for loved ones, friends, or neighbors who may be vulnerable. Speak up if you have concerns. That means even if you are not sure. You have a right to question. Be involved. Volunteer with older adults in your community. Support initiatives to increase and strengthen adult protective services in Minnesota.

Tom Hyder, executive director of ECRA, states, “We need to take steps to end elder abuse in Minnesota. That first step is awareness - to begin the discussion - to break the silence of elder abuse.”

The May 11 event featured a Governor’s Proclamation calling May “Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention” month and presentations by former Attorney General Skip Humphrey, David Loeffler, a current attorney with the attorney general’s office, and an elder survivor of financial exploitation.

For more information about elder abuse prevention and ElderCare Rights Alliance, see their web site at http://www.eldercarerights.org/, or call 952/854-7304 or 800/953-4055.