Jewish Home marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Jewish Home marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

The Jewish Home Family, which opened New Jersey’s only elder abuse shelter last year, is inviting the community to a breakfast and panel discussion on June 15, which is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

SeniorHaven for the Prevention of Elder Abuse was opened last year and is one of just 14 similar shelters in the United States. Elder abuse is defined as any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. This can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect and financial exploitation. Less than 5 percent of cases of abuse, which are estimated to number in the millions, are reported each year. Referrals can be made to SeniorHaven by calling (855) 455-0555.

SeniorHaven offers a safe haven for victims, who may be housed within the walls of Jewish Home Family organizations or at a partner organization. While they are in shelter, victims receive a full range of services, provided without charge. A typical shelter stay is 90 to 120 days and discharge planning begins upon admission. SeniorHaven is a member of the SPRiNG Alliance (Shelter Partners Regional National Global), a group that represents all the shelters in the United States and works to help raise awareness of elder abuse.

The breakfast will begin at 7:45 a.m. at the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, at 10 Link Drive. The panel will feature members from a range of professions; they will talk about their experiences in identifying elder abuse and they will offer advice to others in spotting and preventing that abuse.

For reservations, call (201) 784-1414 ext. 5524 or email sbuchwald@jewishhomefamily.org.

read more:
comments