Elder abuse is too often an invisible issue that exists in our communities. June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and the Androscoggin Elder Abuse Task Force would like to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to give some thought to the elders in our lives who may be experiencing abuse and who are in need of a caring person to reach out a hand.

Elder abuse can take many forms. Seniors may be taken advantage of by scam artists, paid caregivers, or others looking to profit from their vulnerability. But the most difficult abuse for a person of any age to deal with is abuse that comes from someone the victim loves.

Domestic violence can impact anyone, regardless of their age, gender or race. Elders who are experiencing domestic violence may be in a relationship that has been abusive since the beginning, or the abuse may emerge later in life as both partners age. Perpetrators of abuse seek to control their victim and may use a variety of tactics to maintain that control.

People often think of physical violence as the primary form of abuse; it is often the easiest to see because of the visible bruises and other signs of injury. Older adults in particular may be more vulnerable to injury from physical abuse as their health and physical condition change with age.

As harmful as physical abuse may be, however, it is emotional abuse that often has the longest-lasting effects. Emotional abuse might not leave the visible marks that physical violence does, but put-downs, threats and name-calling by loved ones leave their own kind of scars. For someone who has been in an abusive marriage for 30, 40, even 50 years, it may be difficult to imagine a life that doesn’t include abuse.

It is hard for any victim of violence to speak out and ask for help, but many of the elderly face additional barriers. They are often more isolated than others due to loss of mobility, and if they are no longer in the workforce, often have little or no contact with others outside the home. They are frequently dependent on their abuser for care, making it even more difficult for them to reach out for help. They may fear they’ll be unable to live independently or care for themselves if their abuser is arrested.

Knowing what to look for is the first step in helping someone. Some signs that elders may be abused include frequent unexplained injuries, inconsistent stories regarding injuries and abuse of pets in the home. Their abusers may prevent them from having conversations with others alone, or the abusers may answer for them. They may seem afraid.

If you see these things and think an elder you know is in an unsafe situation, don’t be afraid to start a conversation. Discuss your observations and concerns in a safe, private setting. Try not to make assumptions or judge the victim or their choices. Let them know that you care and want to help, but respect their privacy and their wishes if they are not ready to talk.

You do not need to be an expert to ask, “How can I help?” There are resources available in the community.

The Abused Women’s Advocacy Project works with people of all ages in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties who are experiencing abuse at the hands of a spouse or intimate partner. The 24-hour helpline (1-800-559-2927) is free and confidential. Advocates can provide support, information and referrals. Advocates can also meet in person with people experiencing abuse to safety plan and assist with the court process.

The Androscoggin Elder Abuse Task Force meets once a month to bring together representatives from community organizations concerned about the issue of elder abuse, with a goal of promoting awareness and education in the community in order for people to know the signs and know how to respond. Represented agencies include Lewiston and Auburn police departments, the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project, Sexual Assault Crisis Center, SeniorsPlus, Adult Protective Services, Lewiston and Auburn housing authorities, and others.

A concerned and educated community is the most important resource for a victim of elder abuse. You may never know how your willingness to reach out and offer help has impacted someone else.

Every older adult deserves a life that includes safety and respect and is free from fear and abuse.

Kelley Glidden is director of community education of the Abused Women’s Advocacy Project in Auburn.