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For Immediate Release:June 9, 2026Media Contact:Lisa CoxMissouri Department of Health and Senior ServicesMedia Inquiry FormDHSS recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRibbon-cutting ceremony June 10JEFFERSON CITY, MO -- June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), an event that seeks to unite communities worldwide to raise awareness of elder abuse. In Missouri, the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) receives and investigates reports of abuse, neglect, bullying and exploitation of some of the state’s most vulnerable individuals - the elderly and adults with disabilities. Last year, DHSS received and investigated 43,208 reports, averaging about 118 per day. That number is on the rise, up from 41,929 last year, though the crimes are vastly underreported. “As people age, it can become increasingly difficult for them to stay involved and connected to their communities and families. As a result, older people are more likely to experience social isolation, which increases the likelihood of abuse, neglect and exploitation,” said Sarah Willson, director of DHSS.Elder abuse is widespread. Every year, an estimated 1 in 10 older adults living in our communities experience some form of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation. Research shows that older adults with cognitive decline or impairment are at a greater risk of being abused or financially exploited, about 1 in 3 experience abuse. “This all-too-common mistreatment impacts people of all ages, identities and backgrounds, wherever they call home – in long-term care facilities and in communities – throughout Missouri,” says Willson. Despite its prevalence, experts believe that elder abuse is significantly underreported, in part because so many communities lack the social supports that would make it easier for those who experience abuse to report it. Research estimates that for every reported adult abuse or neglect case, 23 go unreported to the authorities. Together, communities can address the issue of elder abuse and help prevent it by strengthening education and social support and by reducing social isolation.Anyone who suspects a senior or disabled Missourian is being abused, neglected, bullied or exploited should report to the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-0210, which is operational from 7 a.m. through 8 p.m., 365 days a year. Online reporting is also available 24/7 at Health.Mo.Gov/abuse. This year, the Missouri State Capitol building will be lit purple from sunset on Monday, June 15, to sunrise on Tuesday, June 16, to raise awareness of this public health issue. Everyone is encouraged to wear purple, and communities across Missouri are encouraged to display WEAAD banners, posters, and yard signs along with purple ribbons or pinwheels. To lead these efforts, DHSS invites the public to participate in a Walk for WEAAD with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick off the community event on Wednesday, June 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Greenway at Wildwood and Edgewood in Jefferson City. For more information about how to make a difference, visit Health.Mo.Gov/weaad. ... See MoreSee Less