The Lone Star State has a duty to protect people of all ages from abuse, neglect and exploitation. As our population ages, our ability to protect adults who are elderly or have a disability increases in importance. These Texans now make up almost a quarter of the state's total population, and many live alone or are dependent on others for care. The Adult Protective Services program of the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services works to stop abuse of the elderly and adults with disabilities.
Elder abuse affects victims of all racial, cultural, religious and socioeconomic groups.
Signs of maltreatment may include emotional abuse, forced isolation, depression, fear, financial exploitation and physical injuries. Caregivers who abuse or neglect those in their care may show anger or indifference toward elders, prevent them from speaking to or seeing visitors, or take advantage of their financial resources. Let us all begin at home and ensure that we are taking the very best care of the seniors in our lives, while also reaching out to the elderly in communities across Texas. Therefore, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim May 2001, Elder Abuse Prevention Month in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof. Exploitation The following descriptions are not necessarily proof of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.