Saturday, June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It is a day to recognize that even elders in Watertown can be vulnerable and experience abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Sometimes the abuse and neglect is intentional and at times it is the result of loving caregivers who simply can no longer provide the level of care needed and don’t know where to turn for help. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs has designated Springwell, a local non-profit, as the agency responsible for investigating and alleviating elder abuse in Watertown.
Recently, Springwell, along with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Norfolk & Middlesex District Attorney Offices, hosted a training titled “Protecting Elders at Risk.” Bree Cunningham, Director of Protective Services for the Executive Office of Elder Affairs emphasized that the goal of the Commonwealth’s Protective Services Program is to help individuals live in the community while alleviating risks. Eli Espinal, Springwell’s Protective Services Program Manager shared with attendees that when an elder is willing and able to engage with Springwell’s staff to address their situation, Protective Services is a short term intervention designed to connect with the elder, trouble shoot their issues, reduce and/or alleviate their distress and create an on-going support system. If necessary, the legal system is engaged to help ensure that the elder is physically, financially and emotionally safe from harm.
Anyone can report their concern about an elder by calling the state-wide Elder Abuse toll-free HOTLINE: 1-800-922-2275. The hotline takes calls 24/7. Additional info, including how to make a non-urgent online report, can be found at https://springwell.com/resource/making-a-report-of-elder-abuse/
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About Springwell
Springwell is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to helping people who need long-term services and supports to remain independent and healthy in the setting of their choice. We support thousands of individuals each year by deploying an expert staff to deliver a significant array of more than 20 services and programs including Case Management & In-Home Services, Supportive Housing, Protective Services, Nutrition Services, Information & Consultation Services, Caregiver Support, Money Management, and Friendly Visitors/Medical Escorts. Services are made possible in part by contracts with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, MassHealth, contracts with insurance and health care providers, and also through the generosity of individuals and institutions that provide critical philanthropic support. (www.springwell.com)