In every community across this country vulnerable older adults are being abused, neglected, and exploited. Yet in many instances their plight is ignored or minimized by a society that all too often views older persons as burdens, rather than as valued individuals who are entitled, as we all are, to be treated with dignity and respect. Many incidents of abuse go unreported because older persons are embarrassed, ashamed, or fearful of losing the help they need from family members or caregivers to remain in their homes. As the number of older adults in our population increases, the incidence of elder abuse will almost certainly increase, unless our society takes action to address this issue.

The Elder Abuse Alliance was founded in 1999 when volunteers from various disciplines in Genesee County, Michigan, including law enforcement, legal professionals, financial institutions, medical and social service providers, and other interested individuals, joined together to respond to this crisis in their community.