With Door County having the fastest growing elder population in the state, Help of Door County is reaching out as Elder Abuse Awareness Day approaches next Tuesday. Executive Director Milly Gonzales says that with one-third of Door County residents aged 65 or older, the area is more susceptible to elder abuse issues. She shares examples of ways the elderly can be abused.

Gonzales adds that she has seen situations where pets or money were taken away from the elderly. In addition, elder abuse can be done by someone else in the home outside of the family, like a caretaker. She notes that red flags can include signs of depression, including less social involvement and personal upkeep. Suppose you suspect someone is a victim of elder abuse. In that case, Gonzales recommends you to reach out to Help of Door County or Adult Protective Services at the Aging & Disability Resource Center in Sturgeon Bay.