HUNTSVILLE — The latest trends and best practices in preventing fraud and combatting abuse toward senior adults will be at the forefront of a conference next week in Huntsville.
The Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments is hosting the second annual PEACE Conference and Fraud Summit from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 28 at First Baptist Church in Huntsville.
“PEACE stands for Preventing Elder Abuse and Criminal Exploitation,” explained Sheila Dessau-Ivey, director of Aging Programs at TARCOG. “But it’s also such a fitting name for this event. We are trying to bring more peace to our communities by providing free resources to help protect our seniors.”
According to a 2022 report from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, total financial losses by fraud victims over age 60 increased by 84% from 2021 to 2022; 916 of the victims were in Alabama.
“Whether due to their living arrangements, their health, or a variety of other factors, older adults are often more vulnerable to fraud and abuse than other populations,” said Dessau-Ivey. “It is important that we provide resources specifically for seniors and their caregivers to help them stay safe and, when fraud or abuse has happened, find justice.”
The conference will feature speakers, three plenary sessions and two breakout sessions, as well as vendors and exhibitors.
Topics for discussion include the latest financial scams targeting older adults, debt management, and how to recognize and report elder abuse.
These topics are of particular interest for anyone who works with or advocates for elderly and disabled adults such as social workers, nurses, and caregivers.
Continuing education units may be available for professionals who attend the sessions.
Registration is free and open to the public.
The event is sponsored by the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama, Alabama Securities Commission Investor Protection Trust, the Alabama Department of Senior Services, and Brookshire Healthcare. Continuing education is sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care.
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