Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) –Approximately 18,000 allegations of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation have been received by NM Adult Protective Services so far this year. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and the state is helping New Mexicans recognize the warning signs and report suspected abuse. Elder abuse can include physical and emotional abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial exploitation and scams. Scams often target older adults including fraudulent phone calls, impersonation schemes, and romance scams. Many of these are underreported leaving older adults isolated or without the support they need. Emily Kaltenbach, Aging Department Secretary said in a release, “As New Mexico’s older population continues to grow, it is more important than ever that we look out for one another and recognize when someone may need help.” New Mexicans who suspect abuse, neglect or exploitation of a vulnerable adult can report concerns to Adult Protective Services or go to the website for NM Aging and Long-Term Services Department at aging dot nm dot gov.
