Tulsa Police Host Elder Abuse Awareness Event

Monday, Tulsa police financial crimes unit hosted an elder abuse awareness event - the only event like it in the state.

Tuesday, June 30th 2015, 6:58 pm

By: News On 6


Monday, Tulsa police financial crimes unit hosted an elder abuse awareness event - the only event like it in the state.

Speakers talked about Medicare fraud, how to spot the signs of Alzheimer's and what are the most popular scams right now.

Members of the Older and Bolder dance group range from 47 to 80 years old and are an inspiration to other seniors to get up and get moving, to better improve physical and mental health.

But for all too many seniors, abuse, mistreatment and a lack of care, often at the hands of their own loved ones is a too common reality.

It's not just physical abuse, too many seniors are losing their money to family members and strangers alike.

At Monday's event, several seniors, like 85-year-old Mamie Hall, learned that you're never too young or too old to protect yourself.

"I got a phone call from the IRS that said call this number. I did not call this number. I get calls all the time, I just hang up," she said.

Unfortunately, not everyone is as sharp as Hall.

She attended the evening and was most interested in the latest news about Alzheimer's, something she worries about as she ages.

"I've heard 50 percent of people over 80 get Alzheimer's and I think even though it's not researched, what we eat has a lot to do with it," Hall said.

She's exercised with weights three times a week for 40 years, tries to eat right and practices standing on one foot to maintain good balance.

She's been married for almost 66 years and is always looking for information about being safe.

"It can happen to anyone," Hall said.

Police want senior citizens to know they are not alone and no matter what issue they face, someone is willing to help - whether it's health problems or they've been a victim of a scam, police say don't keep it a secret.

"Give us a call and make us aware and share the information with your friends so it can prevent them from being a victim," Detective Debbie Crisp said.

If you know of a senior being abused or taken advantage of, report it to Adult Protective Services at 918-776-8061 or 1-800-522-3511.

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