Yost urges action on elder abuse

SANDUSKY — Ohioans are being urged to take a stand against elder abuse and raise awareness of the growing risks facing older adults. As the world observes Elder Abuse Awareness Month, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost urged all Ohioans to stand up against the exploitation of older adults and to help amplify the message that abuse in any form must not be tolerated. Speaking to a crowd of more than 200 advocates and professionals at the 2025 World Elder Abuse Conference, Yost delivered a call to action. "It's infuriating that the elderly — our parents, grandparents and neighbors — should become the victims of predators who exploit their diminished vigor and capability," he said. "Shouldn't some things be off limits — even to criminals?" Titled New Age Vulnerabilities: Protecting Older Adults in a Digital Era, the conference was hosted by the Attorney General's Elder Abuse Commission at Ohio State University's Fawcett Center. It featured expert-led sessions on cryptocurrency scams, artificial intelligence fraud and the evolving digital threats facing older populations. Keynote speaker Tracy Dodson, a nurse educator and professor at Kent State University, joined Yost in emphasizing the importance of vigilance and education. Breakout sessions explored emerging challenges and strategies for prevention and intervention. Yost also announced a new partnership with the Ohio Pharmacists Association to help combat elder abuse. The initiative will train pharmacists — often the most consistent point of contact for older adults — to recognize signs of abuse and guide victims to safety. "Do you know anybody over 60 years old (who) isn't taking at least one prescription?" Yost asked. "This could be a huge multiplier to get the word out that you're not alone, you're not abandoned, and you don't have to take it." The attorney general's elder justice unit, a multidisciplinary team within his office, continues to support victims and prosecute offenders. The unit includes experts from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, consumer protection, crime victim services, health care fraud and special prosecutions. Additionally, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation's electronic fraud investigations unit, now in its second year, is tackling the rise in cyber and financial crimes targeting seniors. The unit has already disrupted several major operations and works closely with local and federal law enforcement to recover stolen funds and bring perpetrators to justice. According to Yost's office, warning signs of elder abuse may include: • Unexplained weight loss, bruising or bleeding • Sudden changes in mood or personality • Deteriorating home conditions Ohioans are encouraged to report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation by calling the Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-855-644-6277 or visiting ohioattorneygeneral.gov. For law enforcement assistance, contact BCI at 855-224-6446 or email intel@ohioattorneygeneral.gov. "Protecting our elders is not just a legal duty — it's a moral one," Yost said. "Together, we can ensure that Ohio's older adults live with the dignity, safety and respect they deserve."