PITTSBORO, NC— The Chatham County Department of Social Services invites the community to learn about the signs of elder abuse and how to prevent it on June 9, 2022, in Pittsboro. The event at Central Carolina Community College will focus on the most reported form of adult mistreatment statewide – self neglect.

WHAT: Elder Abuse Awareness Community Event

WHEN: June 9, 2022
9:00 a.m. - noon

WHERE: Central Carolina Community College (CCCC)- Pittsboro Campus
764 West Street, Pittsboro

WHO: Chatham County Department of Social Services – Adult Services Unit

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners declared the period between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day (May 8-June 19) as Vulnerable Adult and Elder Abuse and Exploitation Awareness Month. Elder Abuse Awareness is recognized annually in North Carolina, and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is recognized on June 16th nationally.

Navigating through COVID-19 has had even more of an impact on one of Chatham County’s most vulnerable populations due to an increase in isolation and loss of social connections and support systems. In 2021, the Chatham County Department of Social Services Adult Services Unit received an increase of 34% in adult protective services reports than the year prior.

Event attendees can obtain information about the impact of self-neglect on older adults, prevention, as well as access to several community agencies and resources. Free goodie bags will be available to all attendees, while supplies last. Agency vendors will be set up outdoors near the horticulture space on CCCC’s Pittsboro campus. For more information, individuals may contact Janelle Lewis at (919) 642-6946.