FW: Elder Abuse Awareness Day--June 15th
Cortez, Sheri
Good morning, community partners.
We hope you are all doing well and staying safe and dry during this week’s storms.
Today is Elder Abuse Awareness Day. As shared by Mary McFaden, Bureau Chief of the Domestic Violence Bureau, elder abuse remains one of the most underreported crimes. Throughout this month, our office has been actively engaging with the community to share information about available resources and support for those in need.
We kindly ask that you distribute the attached PSAs in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Your partnership is essential in helping us reach this vulnerable population, and we are grateful for your help in spreading the word.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support for our community
|
|
Sheri Cortez Outreach Coordinator Domestic Violence Bureau: Domestic Violence, Elder Abuse, Protective Orders & Domestic Violence Services Harris County District Attorney’s Office 1201 Franklin, Suite 600 Houston, Texas 77002 https://dao.harriscountytx.gov/ Email: cortez...@dao.hctx.net Cell 832-840-6814 Personal Cell 713-702-3543 Office 713-274-5623 |
From: McFaden, Mary <MCFADE...@dao.hctx.net>
Sent: Friday, June 12, 2026 4:14 PM
To: McFaden, Mary <MCFADE...@dao.hctx.net>; Cortez, Sheri <CORTEZ...@dao.hctx.net>
Subject: Elder Abuse Awareness Day--June 15th
Dear Partners,
As we recognize National Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, we turn our focus to the often hidden but deeply harmful issue of domestic violence and financial abuse of older adults by family members. This day serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to stand with our seniors, protect their dignity, and ensure their safety.
•
1 in 10 older Americans experience abuse each year.
• 60% of elder abuse is committed by family members.
• Elders lose an average of
$12,000 annually to financial abuse, frequently by someone they trust
• Financial exploitation struck approximately 20% of Adult Protective Services cases as the primary form of elder abuse
Domestic and financial abuse undermine safety, independence, and dignity—often in the very place an older adult should feel most secure. Awareness, early recognition, and timely reporting are essential to preventing further harm.
Protective Order Assistance
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office Domestic Violence Bureau offers
free protective orders for eligible elder abuse survivors. Protective orders:
• Do not require prior law enforcement involvement
• Are civil orders enforceable across all 50 states
• Restrictions can inclu the abuser from contacting, approaching the victim
• Can last two years or longer, including permanent options when appropriate
For outreach, resources, or questions, please contact Sheri Cortez at cortez...@dao.hctx.net or 713-702-3543 (mobile).
Thank you for your continued partnership as we work to protect older adults and strengthen the safety of our community.
Warm regards,
Mary
|
|
Mary McFaden, Bureau Chief Domestic Violence Bureau: Domestic Violence, Elder Abuse, Protective Orders & Domestic Violence Services Harris County District Attorney’s Office 1201 Franklin, Suite 600 Houston, Texas 77002 Email: mcfade...@dao.hctx.net Office: 713-274-1900 |
This e-mail is the work product of the Harris County District Attorney's Office prepared in anticipation of or in the course of preparing for criminal litigation. This e-mail reflects the mental impressions or legal reasoning of an attorney representing the State of Texas or his staff. This e-mail is not subject to public disclosure without the express permission of the Harris County District Attorney or his designated representative.