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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 13, 2025
Lt. Governor David Wasinger Invites All Missourians to Observe World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
JEFFERSON CITY, MO – As Missouri’s official advocate for seniors, Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger today issued a statement recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) and urging all Missourians to help protect the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of the state’s older adults.
Observed every June 15th, WEAAD is a global initiative to raise awareness and strengthen efforts to prevent elder abuse in all forms, including physical, emotional, and financial. Lt. Governor Wasinger called on community members, caregivers, financial institutions, health professionals, and local governments to be vigilant, learn the warning signs of abuse, and report concerns without hesitation.
“Too many of our seniors suffer in silence,” said Lt. Governor Wasinger. “On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we shine a light on the abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by older Missourians—and we reaffirm our promise to stand up for them.”
The Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-392-0210. For more information, including educational materials and how to identify abuse, Missourians can visit health.mo.gov/abuse.
“Elder abuse is often hidden behind closed doors. It thrives in silence,” Wasinger said. “If you see something, say something. One call could save a life.”
As part of WEAAD, Missourians are encouraged to wear purple on June 15th to help raise awareness and show support for Missouri’s seniors.
“As your Lt. Governor and the advocate for Missouri’s seniors, I will continue fighting to protect those who raised us, served us, and made our communities what they are today,” Wasinger said. “They deserve nothing less than our full respect and protection.”
About David Wasinger
David Wasinger serves as Missouri’s 49th Lt. Governor. Wasinger is a lifelong Missourian, raised in Hannibal, Missouri. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia and Vanderbilt University School of Law, building a career as an attorney who stood up to powerful special interests and fought for justice for everyday Americans.
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Contact: Chris Walker
Chris.Walker@ltgov.mo.gov
Office: (573) 751-4727
Office of Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger
Missouri State Capitol
201 Capitol Ave., Room 224
Jefferson City, MO 65101 |
