World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), observed annually on June 15, is a critical opportunity for Alaskans to reflect on the safety and dignity of our rapidly growing senior population. With more than 160,000 Alaskans now aged 60 and older—representing nearly 22% of the state’s population—the risk of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation is rising in step with demographic changes. Older adults in Alaska face unique vulnerabilities, especially in rural communities. People may be isolated, have disabling conditions, or experience other health challenges, making them more susceptible to harm.
In 2024 alone, Adult Protective Services (APS) received more than 8,100 reports of harm against Alaskans aged 60 and older. Of these, nearly 2,000 were screened in for investigation—evidence of both high need and growing awareness. Meanwhile, the Alaska Long-Term Care Ombudsman investigated nearly 500 complaints in assisted living settings, with 80% resolved to the satisfaction of the resident or their representative.
Elder abuse is not only a moral issue but a public health and safety concern that threatens the independence and wellbeing of Alaskans who built this state. As nearly one in three residents in Southeast Alaska are already seniors—and as the 85+ population is projected to quadruple by 2050—addressing elder abuse is relevant to us all. This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day we reaffirm that every Alaskan elder deserves to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation—protected, valued, and heard.
It's also important to recognize the powerful role that estate planning tools can play in protecting older adults from exploitation and ensuring their wishes are respected. Financial abuse is one of the most common and underreported forms of elder abuse, often committed by someone the victim knows and trusts. By clearly documenting their wishes, appointing trusted representatives, and setting legal safeguards in place, seniors can reduce the risk of manipulation or unauthorized decision-making in times of vulnerability.
Join us on June 12 from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. for a free webinar. Chelsea Riekkola of Foley & Pearson, P.C. will provide an overview of estate planning topics with a focus on the planning for Older Americans. She will discuss powers of attorney, health care directives, wills, probate, and other helpful topics related to estate planning. Because this is a live webinar, participants will be able to ask questions during and at the end of the presentation. The Zoom link to join the meeting can be found on our Facebook page: Alaska Commission on Aging, or on the Senior Voice Calendar online. Please contact us with us questions: 907-465-3250, doh.acoa.info@alaska.gov.
