Elder abuse is an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an older adult. Elder abuse occurs when an older adult is knowingly mistreated in such a way that their safety is at risk. “Elder abuse” is a broad term that covers a range of kinds of abuse, so let’s take a closer look at the different types and how they’re generally defined.

Elder abuse cases are growing across the country.  This elder abuse can take many forms ranging from physical abuse, sexual abuse to psychological abuse. With 21% of its population aged 65 or more, Florida has a significant number of elder abuse victims.

Here are five local resources in Daytona, FL, where you can report elder abuse:

1. Council on Aging (COA) Volusia County – COA provides a range of services to support the elderly, including assistance with reporting elder abuse. They offer resources and support to ensure the safety and well-being of seniors.
   Phone: 386-253-4700
   
2. Florida Abuse Hotline (Department of Children and Families) – The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the elderly. This state-run service ensures that reports are investigated and appropriate actions are taken.
   Phone: 1-800-962-2873
   
3. Adult Protective Services (APS) – Volusia County – APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults, including the elderly, in Volusia County. They provide protective services to ensure the safety of at-risk adults.
   Phone: 386-238-4762
   
4. ElderSource – ElderSource serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Volusia County, offering resources and support for the elderly, including assistance with reporting and preventing elder abuse.
   Phone: 1-888-242-4464
   
5. Seniors vs. Crime – Volusia County Sheriff’s Office – This program is a unique project of the Florida Attorney General’s Office, operated in cooperation with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. It helps seniors who crimes, including elder abuse, may have victimized.
   Phone: 386-822-7916

These resources collaborate to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly individuals in Daytona, Floida, offering support, intervention, and advocacy against elder abuse.