The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, through its Secure Seniors Florida elder abuse prevention effort, is reminding residents how and when to report elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Elder abuse means hurting, neglecting or taking advantage of an older person. Chapter 825, Florida Statutes, makes it a crime to abuse, neglect or exploit an elderly person. The law defines an elderly person as someone age 60 or older whose ability to care for or protect themselves is impaired by the infirmities of aging.

Florida's Adult Protective Services Act, Chapter 415, Florida Statutes, requires any person who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a vulnerable adult is being abused, neglected or exploited to report it immediately. A vulnerable adult is anyone 18 or older whose ability to care for or protect themselves is impaired, including by the infirmities of aging.

"If you see something or feel something is wrong, say something," Clorivel Longoria, Elder Abuse Prevention Coordinator." Reporting helps keep older adults safe."

When to report

Residents should report right away if:

• Something doesn't feel right.
• They see someone being hurt or ignored.
• Money or property is being taken unfairly.

You do not need proof to make a report.

How to report, 24 hours a day

• Call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873, run by the Florida Department of Children and Families. Callers can remain anonymous if they want.
• Report online at reportabuse.myflfamilies.com/s/.
• If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first, then report to Adult Protective Services (APS).

What happens next

Trained workers check the report, help is sent if needed, and the reporter's name is kept private.