A New Leaf’s Post

👵💜 Let's Talk About Abuse in Later Life 💜👴 As we age, it's important to recognize that abuse can happen at any stage of life. Abuse in later life affects individuals aged 50 and older, often by someone they trust, like a spouse, partner, family member, or caregiver. Did you know that more than 10% of community-residing older adults experience various forms of abuse annually in the United States? It's a sobering statistic, but together, we can raise awareness and take action to prevent abuse in our community. At StepStone, we're committed to supporting older adults who may be experiencing abuse or neglect. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.TheHotline.org for help and support. Here are some ways you can help prevent abuse in later life: Enhance social support for older adults to reduce their risk of abuse. Advocate for specialized training for shelters, hotlines, and social service agencies to better support older victims and survivors. Encourage the availability of domestic violence information and resources specifically tailored to older adults in our community. Ensure that health care professionals are properly screening older patients for signs of abuse and providing appropriate support. Educate ourselves and others about the signs of abuse in later life and how to respond effectively. Together, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for older adults in our community. Let's stand together against abuse in later life and ensure that every individual can age with dignity, respect, and safety. 💪💬 #EndAbuse #ProtectOurElders #CommunitySupport

🚨 Raise awareness: Putting an end to Elder Abuse! 🛑 Did you know that millions of elderly individuals suffer from abuse every year? It's time to shed some light on this concerning issue and work together to protect our senior citizens! Elder abuse can take many forms - physical, emotional, financial, or even neglect. And sadly, it often goes unnoticed or unreported. It's essential to recognize the signs and take action to prevent and stop the mistreatment of our older population. 📍 Together, let's educate ourselves and our community about elder abuse: 🔍 Recognize the signs: Keep an eye out for unexplained injuries, sudden behavioral changes, withdrawal from activities, financial exploitation, or a decline in hygiene. Trust your instincts and speak up if something doesn't seem right. 💬 Speak up: If you suspect someone is being abused, report it to the appropriate authorities. You could be their voice when they're unable to speak for themselves. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry. 🚫 Break the silence: Don't shy away from these uncomfortable conversations. By openly discussing elder abuse, we can remove the stigma and encourage victims to come forward. Share informative resources, helpline numbers, or support organizations to provide assistance to those in need. 💙 Respect and value our elders: Treat our senior citizens with the respect and kindness they deserve. They have a wealth of wisdom and experience to offer. Make an effort to spend time with them, check on their well-being, and ensure they have the quality care they need. 🌐 Spread the word: Share this post to help spread awareness about elder abuse and encourage others to take a stand against it. Together, we can create a safer and more compassionate world for our aging population. Remember, just one small action can make a significant impact in someone's life. Let's protect our elderly loved ones, ensure their well-being, and put an end to elder abuse, once and for all. 💜 #ElderAbuseAwareness #RespectOurElders #StopTheAbuse

𝗣𝗖𝗔 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘂𝗱𝘀 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀' 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗽 𝘗𝘊𝘈 𝘎𝘦𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘢 𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘱𝘩𝘺𝘴𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 🔵 What does an animated series have to do with child abuse prevention? A recent storyline shift in a popular animated series prompted Prevent Child Abuse America to respond when writers of the Simpsons' series removed the long-running clip of patriarch Homer choking his son Bart. Media outlet TMZ reached out to Prevent Child Abuse America CEO Dr. Melissa Merrick for feedback on removing the clip that has been a part of the show for its 35-year run. According to Merrick, PCAA “has been working for decades to make substantial changes in how we talk about, create policy around, and engage big influencers to help make an impact on this issue ... and PCAA has learned that it takes all kinds of partners – researchers, media, other nonprofits, and individuals – to stop abuse before it starts.” We agree with PCA America and point to aligning research conducted by Assistant Director Dr. Jyll Walsh and GRA Melissa Cameron, released earlier this year, exploring data specific to Georgia. PCA Georgia has also conducted focus groups and research to understand better attitudes toward using physical punishment and strategies for professionals to discuss physical punishment with caregivers effectively. Decades of research have shown the damaging impact of physical punishment. Our goal now is to change the social norms that make this violence against children acceptable, and a first step is to call it out. We encourage people to learn more about the impact of physical punishment, access Georgia-specific data, and find guidance on discussing physical punishment with caregivers in a sensitive way. Beyond the data, it takes all of us to be vigilant in helping to shift the narrative around child abuse prevention. Click below to learn more: https://ow.ly/RcYK50QkEQs

Live in America? Then you need to hear this — AND DO YOUR BIT. The infants and kids in your neighborhood are in danger! Maybe you thought all was well, but nearly one in four kids living near you is a victim of abuse, right now! (sex, violence, bestial cruelty, trauma causing injury, malnutrition, etc.). The highest rate of child abuse is among mere infants, aged less than one (25.3 per 1,000). 4 million child maltreatment cases were received in 2021. And the perpetrators? The parents themselves, in over 90% of the cases! These infants and kids badly need your intervention. There’s plenty to be done but you can significantly help by merely reporting cases of child abuse that come to your attention to the authorities (you can reach Child Line by dialing 1-800-932-0313). Read this book by a Pennsylvania-based, experienced child abuse pediatrician to know more. #ACE, #Childabuse, #ChildRescue, #ChildProtectiveServices, #CYS, #ChildLine, #Trauma, #meth, #filicide,#CCP https://lnkd.in/gKBiJN5k

The way the domestic abuse industry operates is fundamentally flawed, and deeply corrupt. We know that despite being at least one in three victims of abuse, there is virtually no support for vulnerable men, with only a tiny slither of refuges’ beds, and shelter, being dedicated to them. And whilst this continued denial of the true shape and scale of male victimisation exists, beneath the blanket lies of ‘gendered violence’ lurks another crime committed, that is… even worse. So what’s worse than the betrayal of millions of abused men? Well, what about the rejection of a young boy, fleeing abuse, for these same reasons? For what happens when a boy starts to look like a man? Well… he’s gotta go. Some shelters don’t accept boys over 15, for others it’s 10, and more shocking still... some will reject boys over eight. These boys are deprived of shelter and safety, sent instead to social services, to a homeless shelter, or even back to the abusive home from which he fled. And that is a disgrace. It is quite clear that our shelters do not care about supporting all victims of abuse, and that a small army of dogmatic, bigoted liars will shield such services from criticism. It is clear that these corrupt actions have not stopped domestic violence either, but perpetuated it, allowing the cycle of violence to keep spinning, to the pain, immiseration and death of countless many. There is no defence for vulnerable men not receiving the same support as vulnerable women do. And even less defence for depriving this safety from a literal child. Let’s be clear. Our tax abuse shelters are betraying children because of a perceived danger by a bunch of hysterical, pearl-clutching propagandists, and their hypothetical fear of an innocent boy. And instead, these people have chosen to inflict very real danger upon that child, as a result. So when is enough? Is it now? The longer we fail to protect all victims of abuse, be it male, female, child, or adult; the worse the consequences will be when these crimes inevitably hit the mainstream. So how many must suffer and die as consequence? And when will we treat the issues, not the gender? Join the conversation at @thetinmen on Instagram  #domesticviolence #domesticabuse #boys

Love Has No Age Limit! Stop Elderly Abuse! Elder abuse is a harsh reality that affects millions of seniors worldwide. It’s a silent epidemic that can take many forms, including: ✓ Physical abuse: hitting, pushing, or restraining ✓Emotional abuse: verbal threats, intimidation, or humiliation ✓ Financial abuse: stealing, scamming, or exploiting ✓ Sexual abuse: inappropriate touching or non-consensual sexual acts ✓Neglect: failing to provide basic needs like food, water, or medication But here’s the thing: Elder abuse can be prevented. If you suspect someone is being abused, speak up! Report it to the authorities or adult protective services. And if you’re a caregiver, remember: ✓Treat seniors with respect and dignity ✓ Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings ✓ Encourage independence and autonomy ✓Foster a safe and supportive environment Settings. Let’s work together to protect our seniors and ensure they receive the respect, care, and dignity they deserve. Share this important message with your loved ones and let’s raise awareness about elder abuse! #ElderAbuseAwareness #PreventionIsKey #RespectForSeniors#GoodDoctorsFoundation

Raising awareness on #worldelderabuseawarenessday is crucial to preventing the mistreatment of older adults. It's important to recognize the signs of elder abuse and take action to protect our seniors. Elder abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful. Here are some warning signs to watch out for: ●Physical Injuries: Unexplained bruises, cuts, or burns. ●Withdrawal from Activities: Sudden loss of interest in hobbies or social interaction. ●Financial Exploitation: Missing money or belongings, unusual changes in spending habits. ●Fear or Anxiety: Being afraid of a caregiver or hesitant to speak freely. ●Dehydration or Malnutrition: Signs of neglected basic needs. If you suspect abuse, report it! Contact your local Adult Protective Services or the National Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-677-1116.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨 𝐢𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝? This question comes up repeatedly to justify atrocities committed against innocent people and children. Pedro and I have a little boy, just five years old. He's the center of my world. If someone were to hurt him, I’d want to turn the world upside down. I think any parent understands that feeling. But would I actually want other children harmed in unimaginable ways? No, absolutely not. My entire goal in life would be to preventing that type of harm from coming to any child ever again, anywhere. In the U.S., we're no strangers to the horror of school shootings. Most shooters? Young, white guys. Yet, none of the organizations formed by grieving families advocate for the collective punishment of all white males or endorse the destruction of entire schools in vengeance. They focus instead on ensuring no other family has to ever suffer in the same way. But what about the families of the victims of the October 7 attacks? In the words of the mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who is still being held hostage, “𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘴.” What about the son of Biha and Yakovi Inon, who are still missing. He says: “𝘐𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘤𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘎𝘢𝘻𝘢 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴.” Other families with loved ones still captive? They’re out there protesting, worried that more violence only puts their loved ones in greater danger. And then, there's a mother in Gaza, whose home was damaged by bombing in 2014, her husband injured, her kids hungry. Did she wish an Israeli mother to suffer like she has? Her response: “𝘖𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵. 𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨.” So no, it’s not true that pain inevitably leads to a desire for revenge and harming others. It's a choice. Our actions in these moments define who we are. And if we justify revenge for our pain, do we grant the same right to those we've hurt? Where does this cycle of violence end? Instead, we can choose a world where no child, no family, has to endure such unimaginable pain again. A world where 'never again' truly means never again, for anyone.

As we mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, it's vital to highlight the importance of protecting the elderly from abuse. Elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, financial, or through neglect, can severely impact the health and well-being of older adults. These individuals, who have contributed so much to society, deserve dignity and respect in their later years. Abuse often goes unnoticed and can stem from various factors, including caregiver stress and societal attitudes towards aging. However, no reason justifies mistreatment. It's our collective duty to ensure older adults receive the care they deserve. Raising awareness is the first step to prevention. By educating ourselves on the signs of abuse—such as unexplained injuries, sudden financial changes, or poor living conditions—we can better identify and address these issues. Reporting suspected abuse to authorities is crucial. Supporting caregivers is also essential. Providing resources, respite care, and training can help alleviate the pressures they face, fostering a healthier environment for both caregivers and the elderly. On this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, let's commit to protecting our elderly. By standing against abuse, we honor their contributions and ensure they can live their golden years with dignity and security.