This news item expired on Friday, June 14, 2019 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
From HHS:
Join Us on June 13 at Carrier Park to SPEAK UP about Elder Abuse!
In FY 2018, Buncombe County Health and Human Services Adult Protective Services received 1,938 reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Of these reports, 1,209 cases were investigated and a total of 251 cases of adult abuse were substantiated. Abuse, neglect and exploitation of older, disabled or vulnerable adults can range from financial exploitation, emotional and mental abuse, withholding necessary medical treatment to physical or sexual abuse.
Join us for the Buncombe County World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Walk as we come together to make our community safer for everyone, throughout their life span. The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Walk (WEAAD) will be held on June 13th from 5-7 p.m. at Carrier Park. The WEADD Walk is free and open to the public.
An alliance of community organizations dedicated to the respectful treatment of older and vulnerable adults have put together another wonderful event that includes participation from many community services and vendors that help to protect and care for older and vulnerable adults. There will also be food, ice cream, activities and goodies for all ages. CLICK HERE to register and to get a free tee shirt! Supplies are limited so reserve yours now.
To help you remember the signs of elder abuse, use S.P.E.A.K. U.P. as your guide:
S - Sudden changes in finances
P - Physical injuries
E - Extreme depression / anxiety
A - Absence of health care
K - Kept away from others
U - Unsanitary living conditions
P - Personal items missing
We encourage our community to SPEAK UP if they are concerned about the welfare of a disabled or vulnerable adult. To report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation, please call BCHHS Adult Protective Services Intake at (828) 250-5800.
The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office will also be holding a drug take back where you can drop off expired or no longer needed pills in a safe, convenient way.