Modesto ‘Walk in Park’ observes Elder Abuse Awareness Day

In observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a “Walk in the Park” will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday in the park area north of the Ralston Tower senior apartments at Downey Avenue and I Street in Modesto.

The free event, presented by the Stanislaus Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance, will feature several speakers and exhibitors providing information on recognizing and reporting elder abuse. Attendees also can gather information on essential resources that can help older residents to safely maintain their independence.

Speakers will include District Attorney Birgit Fladager, Modesto Chief of Police Galen Carroll and representatives of the Modesto City Council and U.S. Rep. Jeff Denham’s office.

Among the agencies scheduled to be on hand with information and staff who can answer questions are the Senior Law Project, Adult Protective Services, the Stanislaus Family Justice Center, victim services of the District Attorney’s Office and multiple senior care providers.

Staff of the unclaimed-property division for the California State Controller’s Office also will be present to help those who wish for assistance in conducting a property search.

A free lunch and raffle prizes will be offered, and the locally produced video “Secrets in America” will be available for viewing.

The Stanislaus Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance is a countywide collaborative of agencies that serve elders and dependent adults. Member agencies represent law enforcement, emergency services and social services.

The program works to increased public awareness on issues and challenges surrounding elders and dependent adults and advocate for victims of abuse and neglect.

For more information, call Catholic Charities/SEAPA at (209) 529-3784 or go to www.facebook.com/StanSEAPA.

This story was originally published June 10, 2015 at 11:12 AM with the headline "Modesto ‘Walk in Park’ observes Elder Abuse Awareness Day."