LEWISTON — SeniorsPlus is among the organizations acknowledging June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month, having June 15 highlighted as Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The goal is to bring attention to the issue of seniors being abused, neglected and exploited, often by people they trust the most. Abusers may be spouses, family members, personal acquaintances, professionals in positions of trust or opportunistic strangers who prey on the vulnerable.

“June’s designation builds awareness of the ongoing fight against elder abuse,” said Betsy Sawyer-Manter, executive director of SeniorsPlus. “In addition, we hope potential victims will learn about community partners who can offer protection and other resources.”

SeniorsPlus offers programs throughout the year designed to help reduce the elder abuse, which includes financial abuse. FMI: www.seniorsplus.org.

For assistance with suspected forms of abuse, call 911 or contact Adult Protective Services at 1-800-624-8404 and at www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/aging/aps/.

For investment-related questions or concerns, the Office of Securities within the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation can be reached at 1-877-624-8551 and at www.investors.maine.gov.