03/28/2024
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By Erin Smith

Elder abuse and neglect are issues that affect families through the United States. The Bladen County Division on Aging will take part in marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Bladen County Division on Aging Director Kelly Robeson said there will be Corn Hole and Bingo games and a lunch will be provided. The games will begin at 10 a.m. with a lunch from Subway beginning at 11:15 a.m.and the program will start at 11:45 p.m.

Elder abuse and neglect can take on many different forms from physical and psychological abuse to neglect of their welfare by the ones who are supposed to care for them.

Robeson said that is why the staff of the Lumber River Council of Government has partnered with the Bladen County Division on Aging to present a program discussing elder abuse and neglect. Robeson said Elder Abuse Awareness month basically runs from Mother’s Day through Father’s Day weekend with Friday, June 15, being designated as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Robeson said Christina Brewington with the Bladen County Department of Social Services is scheduled to speak about what constitutes elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.

“She will give an overview of what happens when someone makes a report,” said Robeson.

She added that many people think that when DSS goes out to investigate a complaint they will give the offender the name of the reporting person. That is not true.

“The only reason they ask for a name and contact information is so they (DSS) can call you back,” said Robeson.

Romall Watson, the In-Home Aide Coordinator for the Division on Aging, and Sherwin Rice, who is the SHIPP Counselor with Bladen Community College, will provide information regarding the Seniors Health Insurance Information Program or SHIPP.

For more information contact the Bladen County Division on Aging at 910-862-6800.

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