Older adults' lives and economic security are threatened by elder abuse and financial exploitation.

Every day, all across the United States, older adults are being abused, neglected, and exploited, often by those they trust the most. Many people are surprised to learn that abusers may be spouses, family members, personal acquaintances, or professionals in positions of trust; or opportunistic strangers who prey on the vulnerable.

How large is the problem? No one really knows for certain. Only a small number of cases are identified, as victims are often reluctant or fear reporting these crimes. Experts estimate that only about one in six cases are reported. When these cases come to light, some communities do not know how to respond to protect victims and prosecute these crimes.

Elder Law of Michigan's Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation Division now offers training to law enforcement officers, court personnel, prosecutors, judges, and adult protective services workers to identity and respond to suspected cases of elder abuse and financial exploitation. The goals of the project include:

• Identifying abuse and exploitation
• Reporting abuse and exploitation to the people who can help
• Investigating abuse and exploitation
• Promoting local partnerships to assist victims
• Increasing the prosecution of suspected cases of abuse and exploitation
• Publicizing cases of abuse and exploitation to raise public awareness of these crimes

In 2008, the project trained 159 law enforcement officers, 7 APS staff, 4 judges, 7 prosecutors and 13 other advocates in southeastern Michigan.

For general information on upcoming trainings or for more information call 1-877-200-4943.