Patriotism without protection of vulnerable elders is ‘hollow’ – BG Independent News

Patriotism without protection of vulnerable elders is ‘hollow’ – BG Independent News

By JAN McLAUGHLIN BG Independent News Local officials paid respects to Old Glory and older Americans on Friday. As the American flag blew gently in the breeze at the Wood County Senior Center, the community learned that 460 cases of possible elder abuse were investigated in Wood County last year. That was an increase of 80 from the year before. Zach Migura, executive director and veterans service officer for Wood County, made a connection between Flag Day on June 14 and Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15.  “They call on the same virtues – respect for what is greater than any one of us, responsibility to one another, and the courage to act when our values are threatened,” he said. Honoring the flag means defending liberty, seeking justice and showing compassion to the vulnerable among us, Migura said. “On this day then, let us connect symbol and substance,” he said. “Let us recognize that honoring the flag means honoring the people under it. Patriotism without protection is hollow.” Migura put protection of elders in practical terms.  “First, it means seeing abuse for what it is – a violation of autonomy and dignity,” he said. “Abuse can be deliberate or the result of systemic failure. It can be a caregiver’s moment of anger, a dependency that yields financial exploitation, inadequate staffing in institutions, or social isolation that leaves elders vulnerable.” All too often, Migura continued, abuse hides in plain sight because of shame, fear, or the mistaken belief that certain harms are inevitable with aging. They are not, he said. “We owe our elders better. We owe them safety, respect, and the right to make choices about their lives,” he said. Elder Abuse Awareness T-shirts at event Migura issued a call for action in three areas – individual, community and public policy. Individually, people should be vigilant. Visit elderly neighbors. Be aware of the signs of abuse, such as unexplained injuries, sudden changes in finances, withdrawal from usual activities, or fearful behavior around caregivers. Then speak up when harm is suspected. In communities, networks should be built to reduce isolation and increase oversight. Faith communities, civic organizations, libraries, senior centers and volunteer groups can offer companionship and a watchful presence.  Local businesses can be trained to spot signs of exploitation. Neighborhood watch programs can include welfare checks for senior living alone. Hospitals, pharmacies and social services can coordinate to ensure continuity of care and to flag unusual patterns that might indicate financial or physical abuse. “The flag flying outside a community center ought to be matched by a network inside that center – a network of people who look out for one another and refuse to let the vulnerable fall through the cracks,” Migura said. Public policy completes the circle, he said. Governments at all levels should fund and enforce protections for elders. This includes training and oversight for professional caregivers, stronger legal remedies for financial exploitation, accessible reporting mechanisms, and adequate support for families who provide care. “Policy makers must ensure that long-term care facilities meet high standards and are held accountable,” he said. “And we must invest in social safety nets – affordable healthcare, caregiving support, and programs that preserve independence for as long as possible.” Migura also noted that economic insecurity, inadequate healthcare, and discrimination compound vulnerability. Protections for elders must reach every race, gender, socioeconomic status and background, he said. Many elders are veterans who served under the flag, he stressed. “We must ensure that veterans’ services are robust. That benefits are accessible and that those who care for veterans are properly trained and monitored.” Hallie Williams holds American flag during program. “Honor is not a ceremony alone. It’s continued care,” Migura said. Migura offered concrete steps that individuals can take: Learn the signs of elder abuse. Reach out. Make regular calls or visits to elders who live alone. Support caregivers by offering respite, meals and help with errands. Report suspected abuse to the proper authorities – local adult protective services or law enforcement. Volunteer with or donate to organizations that assist seniors and caregivers. Teach young people about respect, consent and the value of elders’ experiences. Migura asked those present to think back of an elder who helped shape their lives. “Let it guide how you vote, how you volunteer, how you spend your time, and how you speak when others are not in the room,” he said. “Let it be the moral compass that links our respect for the flag with our care for our elders.” Also speaking at Friday’s program was Bowling Green City Council member Katelyn Elliott, who read proclamations from Mayor Mike Aspacher. “We are all responsible for building safer communities for our neighbors and reaching out to help senior citizens continue to maintain quality of life by respectfully keeping an eye on and reporting any signs of abuse and related concerns,” Elliott read. Wood County Commissioner Ted Bowlus noted that many cases of elder abuse go unreported. He talked about the signs of physical abuse, such as weight loss and bruising; signs of psychological abuse, such as personality changes, withdrawal, depression and paranoia; and signs of coping mechanisms such as using drugs and alcohol more frequently. “It’s important for us to recognize these signs and symptoms – and report it,” Bowlus said. Wood County Common Pleas Judge Matt Reger talked about the increasing numbers of cases involving scammers preying on older citizens. “We see that too often coming to the court,” Reger said. Wood County Sheriff Mark Wasylyshyn spoke of the vast number of cases that never get reported. He compared elder abuse to domestic violence cases, where the victim is often too afraid to talk about the abuse. Wasylyshyn stressed the need for senior citizens to be assured that the team of Adult Protective Services, law enforcement, and the prosecutor’s office will work together to keep them safe. Wood County Prosecuting Attorney Paul Dobson said he was recently approached by friends who said one of their parents was a victim of a fraud scheme, losing tens of thousands of dollars. The parent was an intelligent, retired business man, who was too ashamed to report the scam. Wood County Probate Judge Dave Woessner joined in asking people to keep a watchful eye on older residents, especially to spot the less obvious forms of abuse and neglect. “Our seniors deserve our respect, and yes, our protection,” he said. Wood County Common Pleas Judge Joel Kuhlman thanked all those present at the event who look out for those unable to protect themselves – law enforcement, fire and EMS, adult protective services, and the Wood County Committee on Aging. And Maureen Veit, who has worked in Wood County Adult Protective Services for 29 years, talked about case numbers growing. “Our numbers are increasing – I think because of the awareness,” she said. Though the work is difficult, Veit said it is also rewarding. “We do see positive endings,” she said.