WASHINGTON – May is Older American’s Month and The HSUS is
joining forces with the U.S. Administration on Aging to
highlight the unique relationship older Americans have with
animals. The HSUS is also drawing on this year’s theme of “What
We Do Makes a Difference” to raise awareness about the need for
communities and social service agencies to recognize the
connection between elder abuse and animal cruelty.
“Many older Americans are particularly attached to their
pets,” said Virginia M. Prevas, manager of The HSUS’ First
Strike program against animal cruelty. “Pets provide comfort
and stress relief, humor, affection, and protection as well as
fostering social interactions.”
Prevas points out that this special bond also makes pets
vulnerable to abuse by those who want to exert power and
control over an older adult.
“In more than two-thirds of domestic elder abuse cases, the
perpetrators are family members who may neglect or abuse a
pet,” Prevas said. “As with other forms of domestic violence,
animal cruelty is a form of control or retaliation.”
Abuse or neglect of animals could also be a sign that an
elderly person is unable to care for themselves and is in need
of assistance. “By being aware of the signs of animal abuse,
medical professionals, neighbors, social workers, friends and
family members can help older Americans and their pets,” said
Prevas.
The Administration on Aging will be pointing out this
connection and citing The HSUS’ resources in this area in their
publications and outreach efforts for Older Americans Month.
“Addressing the problem of elder abuse is one of my top
priorities. The animal protection network performs a unique and
valuable role as sentinels, looking-out for the safety of older
people and their pets. They can make a significant difference
in the communities across the country where they work in
collaboration with our aging and adult protective services
programs,” said Assistant Secretary for Aging, Josefina
Carbonell.
Everyone can help prevent animal cruelty and elder abuse.
The HSUS offers these suggestions to identify and act on
suspected animal abuse:
* Pay attention to the physical condition of pets and ask
about recent illnesses or injuries.
* Look for signs of malnutrition in animals including
visible ribs and food bowls that are always empty.
* Note changes in a pet’s behavior. Animals who are often
frightened, withdrawn, aggressive or overly protective may be
victims of abuse.
* If an animal suddenly disappears or moves outside, ask
why. An elderly person may be willing to acknowledge that an
animal has been abused if someone shows an interest.
* Find out whom to call in your community if you suspect
animal cruelty or elder abuse.
The blue pages in your phone book contain phone numbers for
local law enforcement, adult protective services or other
social service agencies and animal control. Contact the
National Center on Elder Abuse for your state’s elder abuse
hotline number: www.elderabusecenter.org, or 202-898-2586. The
Eldercare Locater can provide information about aging services
in your community: www.eldercare.gov, or 800-677-1116.
For more information or for a free brochure on the
connection between elder abuse and animal cruelty, contact The
HSUS’ First Strike campaign. Call toll free at 888-213-0956,
e-mail firststrike@hsus.org, visit the web site at
www.hsusfirststrike.org, or write to First Strike, The HSUS;
2100 L St., NW; Washington, DC 20037. For a free brochure on
the connection between elder abuse and animal cruelty, please
e-mail firststrike@hsus.org.
The U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) provides leadership,
funding and technical support through Older Americans Act
programs to the national aging network of states, area agencies
on aging, local service providers and aging organization
partners. Through AoA initiatives, services and support such as
elder abuse prevention, home delivered meals, in-home care, and
transportation are provided to assist in maintaining the
dignity and quality of life of older Americans and their
families.
