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Adopt and present a resolution proclaiming June 2019 as Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Awareness Month and June 15, 2019 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Solano County (Supervisor Spering)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The District Attorney recommends the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution proclaiming June 2019 as Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Awareness Month and June 15, 2019 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Solano County.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was created in 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization. Observance of the day also aligns with the United Nations International Plan of Action, which acknowledges the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. The commemoration is meant to give communities around the world a platform for raising awareness of elder abuse and renewing a commitment to address the issue. The theme for this year’s observance is “Lift Up Voices for Elder Justice.”
According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, about one in ten Americans over the age of 60 years has experienced abuse; this represents an estimated five million older adults, according to the national Administration on Community Living. The Center on Elder Abuse’s 2018 factsheet on elder abuse defines abuse as “intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm to an older person.” It states that abuse can take many forms, including: neglect and isolation; physical, sexual and financial abuse; and, emotional or psychological abuse. It lists common risk factors as dementia, mental health or substance abuse issues of an older person and/or a perpetrator, social isolation and poor physical health. The abuse can be addressed by greater community awareness and involvement, good public policy and strong social support systems.
The Older and Disabled Adult Services (ODAS) Bureau works continuously to address the problem through procedures and programs that increase awareness of the issue and encourage or require social work professionals and others to report abuse when it is observed or suspected. The ODAS bureau also works with the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, and many of its partner agencies, including Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa and Solano County, Health and Social Services and law enforcement representatives, to help ensure seniors in Solano County enjoy a life of dignity and respect, free from abuse and neglect.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the department’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials and plaque are included in the Board’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board can choose not to adopt the resolution; however, this action is not recommended as this is an opportunity to raise awareness of Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Awareness Month and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day which have both been recognized annually in Solano County.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION