Unfortunately, thousands of reports flood into the Adult Protection Services center about abuse in Arizona. Estimates suggest that the number of elder abuse in Arizona is much greater than what is being reported. Most of the time, the only thing preventing elders from seeking help is fear. If you know someone or someone close to you that is suffering from elder abuse, it’s up to you to stand up for them.
Elder Abuse Arizona: Statistics
According to the Arizona Attorney General, Tom Horne, neglect and abuse of the elderly have been on the rise over the past 10 years, jumping to a startling 150% more than the previous decade. Maricopa County alone sees over 50,000 documented cases of elder abuse in Arizona alone.
Among these numbers, roughly 20% of abuse cases are from emotional or neglectful abuse. Which means a terrifying 80 percent of abuse cases involve finance, psychical, and sexual abuse against the elderly in Arizona. This is a travesty for people of all ages and something that needs to be stopped immediately. This is why it’s imperative for people that suspect elderly abuse in your or any other household should report it to the proper authorities below.
Elder Abuse Arizona: Laws and Regulations
Any reports of elderly abuse in Arizona are under the jurisdiction of Adult Protective Services (APS), under Arizona Revised Statutes Title 46, Chapter, 4. Upon review of the initial report, APS will determine if intervention is necessary. They will offer protection and any other resources or services the individual may need to get them the help they need.
There are also a few other laws and regulations in place to help children and vulnerable adults in Arizona. The Child or Vulnerable Adult Abuse can help people in situations of serious and life-threatening risk.
Elder Abuse Arizona: Resources
Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to help reports of elder abuse in Arizona. For the suspected mistreatment of the elderly in Arizona (at home or in a healthcare facility) please call 1-877-767-2385.
There are also a number of websites and groups that can assist people in need of assistance. The City of Mesa Police Department Crime Prevention Unit – SAFE (Safety, Abuse and Fraud Educated) Senior Program and the Maricopa Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance are great resources for information on how to handle an incidence of abuse.
Elder abuse Arizona victims must remember that they are far from alone and good people are willing, ready and able to help!