June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month
Green Bay, WI – In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, through its continued collaboration with the Wisconsin Elder Justice Coalition, is offering community resources that work to combat the growing crisis of elder abuse. These resources are accessible to anyone working to prevent elder abuse, and those interested are encouraged to use the Elder Death Review Team or Financial Abuse Specialist Team toolkits.
Elder abuse—whether physical, emotional, financial or through neglect—affects 1 in 10 older adults in the community, according to the National Council on Aging. Tragically, many cases go unreported due to fear, shame or communication barriers. The consequences are profound: increased risk of depression, anxiety, financial ruin and premature death.
In response, the Wisconsin Elder Justice Coalition, in partnership with UW-Green Bay and supported by a grant from Lifespan of Greater Rochester, is taking important strategic action. The coalition brings together state agencies, nonprofit organizations and community leaders to develop necessary tools and resources that empower professionals and communities to prevent abuse and intervene effectively, underscoring a shared commitment to protecting the dignity, safety and well-being of older adults across Wisconsin.
Community Resources for Systemic Change
- Elder Death Review Team (EDRT) Toolkit: This comprehensive guide helps communities establish multidisciplinary teams to review elder deaths, identify systemic failures and recommend policy changes to prevent future tragedies.
- Financial Abuse Specialist Team (FAST) Toolkit: Designed to combat financial exploitation, this toolkit supports the creation and sustainability of FASTs throughout the state. These teams unite professionals from healthcare, legal, financial and social services to protect older adults from financial harm.
Both EDRTs and FASTs are built on collaboration. They bring together a wide array of stakeholders—healthcare providers, social workers, legal experts, caregivers, volunteers and advocates—to form a united front against elder abuse.
“These toolkits help communities work together to better understand and prevent financial exploitation and death of older adults,” said Dinah LaCaze, Adult Protective Services Prevention Program coordinator, Chapter 55 for the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, Aging and Disabilities, Adult Protective Services (APS). “By learning from present and past cases, we can improve coordination, close service gaps, and ultimately save lives.”
The Wisconsin Elder Justice Coalition is not only raising awareness but also driving systemic change. By promoting the reporting of suspected abuse and equipping communities with practical tools, the coalition is building a safer, more just future for older adults.
To learn more about the Wisconsin Elder Justice Coalition and access its resources, including both toolkits, visit www.uwgb.edu/elder-justice-coalition or contact Debra Leis at 920-465-2469.
About the University of Wisconsin-Green BayThe University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 10,300 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 85,000 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With four campus locations in Northeast Wisconsin, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
