Michigan Creates Program to Help Eliminate Senior Abuse

Elderly abuse has increased 40 percent since 2008 with an astonishing estimate of 73,000 Michigan seniors being abused each year. In times of economic distress, it is even more important to be watchful and take preventative measures to stopping elderly abuse.

Far too often, elderly abuse goes unreported. Some seniors don’t admit they are suffering from abuse because they feel it questions their independency or because they are afraid the abuse will get worse.

Fortunately, there are programs such as Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) to lead in supporting victimized seniors. SALT’s mission is to raise awareness of crime and security issues related to the elderly. SALT acts as a liaison between seniors and local police departments and provides updates on any fraudulent activity that may occur that could affect seniors.

SALT provides seniors with information on home security and personal safety and also identifies reoccurring problems, such as fraudulent activities and scams, and recommends programs that will benefit senior citizens.

In Flushing, Mich., SALT provides and installs safety items such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, dead bolt locks, 911 light switches and 911 reflective signs are available to residents 62 years of age or older. SALT volunteers also reach out to seniors that live alone by personally calling them and providing personal interaction for those that may feel isolated.

Preventative measures need to be taken to stop elderly abuse and SALT provides a great initiative and helping hand to the victims of such a horrible crime. To find the SALT program in your community contact your local police department.