Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has declared the week of June 15 Elder Abuse Awareness Week in Michigan, specifically designating June 15 as Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

An estimated 80,000 Michigan residents aged 60 and older are victims of elder abuse. DHS officials predict, as the aging population increases, Michigan could report more than 100,000 cases of elder abuse by the year 2010.

"We are all responsible for creating safer communities for older adults," Granholm said. "Combating elder abuse will help improve the quality of life for Michigan seniors and allow them to live as independently and dynamically as possible."

The Michigan Department of Human Services administers the state's Adult Protective Services program which received 15,752 referrals and investigated 11,700 cases in fiscal year 2007.

Program caseworkers are dedicated to ensuring that adults in need of protection are living in a safe, stable situation. When legal intervention is necessary, it is done in the least intrusive or restrictive manner possible.

"DHS caseworkers arrange services aimed at reducing or eliminating abusive and neglectful situations," DHS Director Ismael Ahmed said. "Although competent clients may refuse services, our caseworkers can seek court orders to protect the personal health and safety of seniors who are in danger or are unable to consent to help. I urge Michigan citizens to report any suspected abuse of older adults by calling the toll free 24-hour Vulnerable Adult HelpLine at 1-800-996-6228."

Forms of elder abuse include physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial or material exploitation and self-neglect. Elder abuse affects people regardless of ethnic background or social status and can affect both men and women in facilities or private homes.

"Elder Abuse Awareness Week is a time to reflect on how we, as communities, support vulnerable older adults," Ahmed said. "We can all take advantage of this opportunity to reach out to families, friends, neighbors and places of worship and employment to spread the message that our communities will be stronger when we protect our older citizens from harm."

For more information go to the DHS Web site.