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A Mothers Day Letter to the Editor
Elder abuse
Editor -This Sunday, as we stop to remember the many gifts given to all of us by older women, I hope we will renew our commitment to protect these women from elder abuse and neglect. Two-thirds of all elder abuse victims are women. Most elder abuse is perpetrated by family members, with children being the most likely to abuse.
What can we do to help protect these mothers and grandmothers from loss of income, loss of dignity and sometimes loss of life? Don't turn a blind eye or a deaf ear. If you hear or see something that makes you concerned about an older woman in your neighborhood, caIl Adult Protective Services, a free service run bythe city. The number is (415) 557-5230.
Celebrate Mother's Day every day. Your mother will be proud of you.
Mary Twomey
Director
Consortium for Elder Abuse Prevention
Institute on Aging
San Francisco
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