Local agencies unite to combat elder abuse, neglect

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — To celebrate Elder Abuse Awareness Month, the Edinburg Nursing and Rehabilitation Center was the final stop for the Elder Abuse Awareness Parade.

Wednesday's event was hosted by the Hidalgo County Family Violence Taskforce, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, and the Hidalgo County District Attorney's Office.

"We come together to make sure we bring awareness to the community about elder abuse," said Dee Ochoa, program director for Silver Ribbon Community Partners. "Whether it's physical, emotional, or financial, it's a really important issue. We need to bring awareness to the community, to be able to find the signs of abuse, and know what to do when they see it."

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, call the Adult Protective Services hotline number at 1-800-252-5400. It's free and available 24 hours, seven days a week.