Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, has joined forces with Brockton Council on Aging (COA) and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse” on Monday, June 15, 2015 at 12 p.m. starting at the Brockton COA, 10 Father Kenney Way. The event will be held rain or shine.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15, 2015; in an effort to raise awareness of elder abuse, OCES, Brockton COA and HarborOne Bank have organized the march down Main Street. Community members are invited to join the “March Against Elder Abuse” starting at the Brockton COA and walking down Main Street to OCES at 144 Main Street, then returning to the COA. Participants will receive a free T-shirt (while supplies last).
Following the walk, a complimentary lunch and a special presentation will be held at the Brockton COA. Guest speakers include Janice Fitzgerald, Director of Brockton COA; Teresa Kourtz, OCES’ Protective Services and Money Management Director; and Pat Foley, OCES’ Protective Services Intake & Outreach Worker. The OCES Protective Services department, as well as those who have assisted elders in the community, will be recognized during the event.
Raising Awareness
Elder abuse includes financial exploitation, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or neglect. According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, family members (spouses, adult children, partners and others) comprise the majority of abusers. Additionally, research indicates that individuals with dementia are at even greater risk for elder abuse.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to share information and spread awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. We can make a difference and encourage the community to join our ‘March Against Elder Abuse’ on Monday June 15th,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director at OCES.
OCES encourages supporters to wear purple on June 15th to show awareness.
There is no cost to attend the lunch, but reservations are required. RSVP by June 8, 2015 to Lisa Mullin by calling 508-584-1561 extension 220 or email lmullin@ocesma.org, or call the Brockton COA at 508-580-7811.
About OCES
Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 215 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508 584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.
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