The Wood County Department of Job and Family Services, the Wood County Committee on Aging, and the City of Bowling Green partnered to hold a community event Friday to mark Flag Day and recognize June as National Elder Abuse Awarness Month.

“What we started years ago was Elder Abuse Awareness Day. In Wood County, we’ve turned it into the month. We collaborated with the senior center, which is the Wood County Committee on Aging,” said Maureen Veit, with Adult Protective Services at Wood County Job and Family Services. “We are also doing an event honoring Flag Day. What we put together is to bring awareness to elder abuse.”

“It’s important for us to remember that these apply to all people, of all backgrounds, and every age. It makes me sad that in this country, there is elder abuse taking place in our communities,” said Mayor Mike Aspacher. “I want to thank all of those who bravely come forward to report cases of abuse, alerting those who can provide help and assistance.”

In Wood County there were 315 reports of elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect, and/or exploitation in 2023, which is consistent with 310 reports from 2022, and the 318 reports from 2021.

“Members of the community have contributed immeasurably to the vibrancy of building up homes, launching local businesses, and establishing family values,” Aspacher said. “Whereas, in Bowling Green and the surrounding area, our collective responsibility (through the Wood County Committee on Aging) is to strive for independent, safe, and dignified living for senior citizens and families.”

Aspacher proclaimed Friday as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Flag Day in the city.