The Georgia Department of Human Services  hopes to raise awareness about the problem of elder abuse by encouraging people to wear purple on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Wednesday.

Individuals who suspect someone is being abused, neglected or exploited,  should contact the Division of Aging Services, Adult Protective Services Unit at 1-866-55-AGING or 1-866-552-4464.

But how can you tell if someone is being abused? There are  warning signs. Signs include unexplained bruises, cigarette burns, lack of medical care, malnutrition or dehydration, sudden change in finances and accounts, altered wills and unusual bank withdrawals.

For  information about ways to detect and report elder abuse: DHS Division of Aging Services at www.aging.dhr.georgia.gov.

About the Author

Featured

Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez