Crime Protection Increasingly Important for Seniors

PRLog (Press Release) - May 16, 2012 - MEDIA CONTACT:   
Annie Hellweg
RFB Communications Group, Inc.
813-259-0345
ahellweg@rfbcommunications.com  


Crime Protection Increasingly Important for Seniors
Plantation South Dunwoody advises seniors and caregivers on safety

DUNWOODY, GA. (May 16, 2012) - Caring for aging parents and loved ones can be difficult under any circumstance, but the rising incidence of crimes against the elderly add to caregivers’ concerns. According to the National Elder Abuse Incidence study, produced annually by the National Center on Elder Abuse, 11 percent of older Americans reported experiencing at least one form of mistreatment or crime in the past year. In addition, financial exploitation by a relative hit 5.1 percent, a rise from 2011.

   “It is becoming increasingly important that seniors understand that they are more likely to be the victims of crime, whether it be financial exploitation, mistreatment or violent crime,” says Yonnie Stevens, executive director of Plantation South Dunwoody. “And because seniors are less likely to report crimes committed against them, they can be attractive targets for criminals.”

   Research from the National Elder Abuse Incidence study estimates that for every reported case of elder abuse or exploitation, five remain unreported. In the case of personal crimes against victims over the age of 65, including rape, robbery and assault, only 63 percent of these crimes are reported.

                   Stevens explains that the risk for elder mistreatment or crime is highest for individuals with low incomes, who are unemployed or retired, report poor health, have experienced a recent traumatic event or have relatively low levels of social support. Women are particularly susceptible, with nearly 92 percent of all financial crimes directed at female seniors.

                    Additional information on senior crime prevention is available through local organizations and assisted living facilities.  Plantation South Dunwoody will also host an interactive session on crime protection for seniors on May 17, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at 594 Barclay Dr. Dunwoody, Ga. 30338.

About Plantation South Dunwoody
Plantation South Dunwoody (www.plantationsouth-dunwoody.com) is a senior living and Alzheimer’s care residential community. Plantation South offers 57 spacious studio apartments, 24-hour staffing, on-site physicians and amenities such as an activity room, salon and library.

About Senior Management Advisors, Inc.
Senior Management Advisors (SMA) (www.seniormanagementadvisors.com) is a leading operator of full service independent living, assisted living and Alzheimer’s care residential communities in Georgia and Florida. SMA specializes in rejuvenating and stabilizing senior living communities for owners, financial institutions, private investors and government agencies. SMA’s services include consultation, management, development and renovation of residential communities.