(WIFR) - June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and the Department on Aging urges the community to learn the warning signs and always speak up for older adults.

Elder abuse is any act causing physical, mental or sexual injury to an older adult, including abandonment or financial exploitation. Elder abuse also applies to any actions that create an environment in which harm may be inflicted to an older adult’s health, physical or emotional wellbeing or welfare.

Signs of potential elder abuse can include unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, unsafe or unsanitary living conditions and sudden changes to bank accounts or bank practices.

“Elder abuse is sadly more common than many people realize, but it is largely preventable,” said IDoA Director Mary Killough. “By understanding what elder

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