Expert on elder exploitation to speak at Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Monday, June 15, 10 a.m.
Athens Community Center, Room B

To commemorate Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Athens County, an expert on elder exploitation will be speaking at the Athens Community Center on Monday, June 15, 10 a.m., to educate the community on the signs of elder abuse and exploitation and what you can do to help.

Athens County Job and Family Services has partnered with United Seniors of Athens County and the Athens Community Center to invite David M. Kessler to speak during this event, which is free and open to the public.
Kessler previously worked with the Ohio Attorney General’s office and served as the Chief Investigator of the Consumer Protection Unit. Within this role, his primary focus became the protection of senior citizens. He now works for the Fairfield County Prosecutor’s Office and continues to share his expertise nationwide through his private consulting business, Protecting the Elderly: protectingtheelderly.com.

Adult Protective Services (APS), which is administered by Athens County JFS, is required to investigate and evaluate all reports of suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults age 60 and older in Athens County. In 2014, APS, with frequent assistance from local law enforcement, investigated 129 new reports of elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect or exploitation.

“We know that this demographic will often times not report instances when they feel they’re being taken advantage of because they don’t see themselves as victims,” said Arian Smedley, Community Relations Coordinator with Athens County JFS. “This speaker will shed some light on the lengths some people go to convince and dupe unsuspecting seniors. We want seniors to know it’s not their fault, and we are ready to help.”

Anyone who suspects elder abuse, neglect or exploitation should call (740) 677-4208. All referrals are confidential. There is no cost for the investigation to the client or family.

Join us in recognizing this day on June 15 by wearing purple, the official color of Elder Abuse Awareness Day.