Every May the nation observes Older Americans Month. The 2019 theme is Connect, Create, and Contribute:

• Connect with friends, family, and services that support participation.
• Create by engaging in activities that promote learning, health, and personal enrichment.
• Contribute time, talent, and life experience to benefit others.

Communities that encourage the contributions of older adults are stronger. By engaging and supporting all community members, older adults play a key role in the vitality of our neighborhoods, networks, and lives.

When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs.

Unfortunately for some Americans growing older is not a pleasant experience. For some they have lost loved ones (spouse, child, parents, even grandchildren, and

close friends) and they feel completely alone.

Some end up in the hands of caregivers who abuse and neglect them. They become isolated and are afraid to tell anyone of the possible dangers that they might be facing. Some are consigned to nursing homes or rest homes with no family or friends who visit or care for their needs.

Elder abuse is never acceptable and is a very serious matter in today’s society. Approximately 10% of Americans age 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse. Some estimates range as high as five million elders are abused each year with only one in 14 cases being reported to authorities.

Talk to staff at Inner Banks Hotline on ways to help if you suspect someone is suffering from elder abuse. To learn more about how to help, go to www.acl.gov.

Inner Banks Hotline staff in Columbia are Janie Spencer, Executive Director; Emily Edwards, Client Advocate; Brenda Wynn, Community Advocate; Gloria Owens, Thrift Store Manager; Avis Bryant, Faith/Hispanic Outreach Advocate.

The office and thrift store are at 507 US Hwy 64 East (beside Family Dollar); telephone 252-796-5526.

The 24-hour Crisis Line number 1-877-429-5526.

Thrift Store Hours are Monday–Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations are accepted in the back in the open carport.