PROCLAMATION

THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
COUNTY OF SAN MATEO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING MAY 2007 AS

Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Awareness Month

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WHEREAS, Aging and Adult Services of San Mateo County, investigates approximately 1,000 suspected cases of elder and dependent adult abuse every year across all socioeconomic, income, ethnic, gender, education and cultural lines; and

WHEREAS, such abuse includes physical, emotional, psychological, financial, abandonment by another and self-neglect, with approximately 55 percent being victimized by others and 45 percent being self-neglect; and

WHEREAS, many abuse cases are unreported and unseen because the victims feel shameful or helpless, victims are dependent on the abuser and/or the victims and other community members are unaware of resources available to help adults maintain independence; and

WHEREAS, as the Baby Boom population ages, those 60 or older will comprise nearly 30 percent of the Peninsula’s population by 2030, a trend that places even greater emphasis on awareness and understanding that adult abuse is a preventable crime; and

WHEREAS, Aging and Adult Services works closely with various agencies, including Ombudsman Services, Mental Health Services, the San Mateo Medical Center, the District Attorney’s Office and law enforcement to help ensure at-risk adults are protected and abusers are prosecuted.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County designates May 2007 as Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Awareness Month in San Mateo County, and encourages everyone to learn more about the signs of possible abuse and to contact Aging and Adult Services or local law enforcement if such abuse is suspected.

Dated: MAY 22, 2007

SUPERVISORS:

ROSE JACOBS GIBSON, PRESIDENT

MARK CHURCH

JERRY HILL

RICHARD S. GORDON

ADRIENNE J. TISSIER

Attest:

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Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors