World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)
Governor's Proclamation
2023 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Proclamation
What is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)?
June 15
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated every June 15th to provide an opportunity for communities to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older adults. WEAAD reminds us that elder abuse has implications for all of us. It is a call to action for individuals, organizations, and communities to learn how to identify, address, and prevent elder abuse so we can all do our part to support everyone as they age.
This year, the theme for WEAAD is Building Strong Support for Elders. Take action today to prevent and address elder abuse and neglect by:
- Engaging Older People.
- Empower Communities.
- Speak Out!
- Involve Youth.
Make a difference. Make the call.
Missouri’s Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline responds to reports of abuse, bullying, neglect, and financial exploitation. If you suspect someone is being abused, bullied, neglected or exploited, call the hotline at 800-392-0210. The hotline operates 365 days per year from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may utilize Relay Missouri by calling 1-800-735-2466. You can report online at health.mo.gov/abuse.
Upcoming Events
DHSS is excited to raise awareness with our partners in the aging community!
- June 6: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Community Panel Presentation
Northland Neighborhoods, Inc.
5340 N. Chouteau Trafficway
Kansas City, MO 64117 - June 15: 11:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. - Walk for WEAAD
Greenway on Edgewood Dr.
Jefferson City, MO 65109 (Parking at 2953 Edgewood Dr.)
WEAAD Webinars
Lunch and Learn Webinar Series
- June 8, 2023
The Foreseeable Consequences of Romance Fraud: From Victim to Victimizer Part II – St. Louis Elder Financial Protection Coalition
11 am (Zoom) – link to come Speakers: Assistant United States Attorney, Tracy Berry and United States Postal Inspector, Peter Dyer - June 13, 2023
WEAAD 2023: Building Strong Support for Elders
11 am – 12 pm ADD:
Facebook.com/HealthyLivingMo - June 15, 2023
Recognizing WEAAD 2023 – live streamed broadcast
National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA)
8 am – 11 pm (CST)
https://www.napsa-now.org/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day/
- June 15, 2023
Trauma-Informed Practices to Address Abuse and Build Resilience
USC Center for Elder Justice
11:30 am – 1 pm (CST) https://eldermistreatment.usc.edu/event/weaad-2023-webinar-trauma-informed-practices-to-address-abuse-and-build-resilience/
Television Coverage
Coming Soon
How can I participate?
- WEAAD Merchandise
- Help show your Support for Missouri’s Seniors by visiting the online store. It features shirts, hats, cups, and bags that can be purchased using credit or debit cards. Items can be shipped directly to your home via USPS. The deadline to order your merchandise is Noon on Wednesday, May 22!
- Help show your Support for Missouri’s Seniors by visiting the online store. It features shirts, hats, cups, and bags that can be purchased using credit or debit cards. Items can be shipped directly to your home via USPS. The deadline to order your merchandise is Noon on Wednesday, May 22!
- Post a social media message
- Wear the color purple on June 15th, take photos and post (use #____)
- Use a WEAAD Frame on Facebook
- Participate in #WEAAD615 challenge on social media
- Share information about elder abuse
- Share information about scam prevention
- Use a purple porchlight during June
- Play WEAAD bingo with friends
- Use a WEAAD bookmark or give one to a friend
- Color or share a WEAAD coloring page A - WEAAD coloring page B
- Call or visit an elderly friend, family member, or neighbor
- Volunteer to help older adults in your community
- Participate in Walk for WEAAD
- Participate in WEAAD Words Worldwide
Resources
- World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) Proclamation NEW
- World Elder Abuse Awareness Day NEW
- National Center on Elder Abuse NEW
- Bullying Knows No Age NEW
- WEAAD Toolkit NEW
- Missouri Secretary of State Office-Elder Abuse Video
Materials - Order NOW!
- WEAAD Wall Posters 11” x 17” (3 designs available)
- WEAAD Window Clings (5” x 5” – to be applied inside of window)
- WEAAD Yard Signs (18” x 24”)
- Adult Protective Services (APS) Informational Flyers NEW
- Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline Poster
- Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline Cards (available in Braille) | Front | Back
* These materials can be downloaded and printed or can be ordered by contacting Kathy.Craig@health.mo.gov.
