In Paulding, Wednesday is Elder Abuse Awareness Day

DALLAS, GA -- Paulding County Commissioners have proclaimed Wednesday to be Elder Abuse Awareness Day in the county.

Joining commissioners recently for the proclamation were Sheriff Gary Gulledge, Paulding County District Attorney Dick Donovan and several detectives from the sheriff's office who work elder abuse cases.

Elder abuse is most often defined as an act that harms a senior or developmentally disabled adult which jeopardizes his or her health or welfare.

With elder abuse being one of the most troubling crimes, commissioners said in a news release, we have to make sure our elderly citizens are protected from physical, emotional, and financial abuse which could be inflicted by caretakers and family members.

"All of our residents should watch for signs of elder abuse such as physical trauma, withdrawal, depression, anxiety, fear of family members, friends, or caregivers," Gulledge said. "If you see one of these signs, you need to call and report it immediately."

On Wednesday, residents are encouraged to take an opportunity to make sure the senior adults in their lives are being cared for properly.

Anyone with concerns may contact the sheriff's office criminal investigations division at (770) 443-3015.