World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

June 15 marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day — an opportunity for communities across Montana and the nation to shine a light on elder abuse and neglect.

As Montana state auditor, I take financial exploitation of seniors seriously — and the numbers show why. Behind every statistic is a name, a face and a story.

Montana has one of the fastest-growing aging populations in the U.S. By 2030, 25% of Montanans will be 65 or older. While this shift reflects our state’s quality of life, it also brings a pressing challenge: a rise in scams targeting our seniors.

In 2021, about 4,900 Montanans were victims of elder abuse. By 2022, referrals to Adult Protective Services (APS) related to abuse or neglect surged by 18%, totaling over 11,500 cases. These alarming trends fuel my office’s efforts to fight back.

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Within our agency, the Financial Abuse Specialist Team — or FAST — provides a coordinated, time-sensitive response to elder financial exploitation. Our specialists review referrals within 72 hours and take legal or regulatory action when needed. FAST also works with industry stakeholders, law enforcement and other state agencies to protect vulnerable Montanans in real time.

Sadly, elder abuse often comes from those in positions of trust — family members, caregivers or friends. That betrayal makes it harder for victims to speak up or seek help.

Abuse flourishes in the dark. That’s why my office holds public awareness events to encourage people to report suspected abuse. We proudly partner with:

● The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Unit — investigates and prosecutes abuse and exploitation;

● Adult Protective Services (APS) — investigates allegations and provides protective services;

● Elder Justice Councils — coordinate local efforts to prevent and address abuse.

Elder abuse — especially financial exploitation — is a silent epidemic. All Montanans share the responsibility to protect our aging population. By staying informed and vigilant, we can ensure our seniors live with dignity and respect.

When bad actors seek to exploit the vulnerable, I will be standing in their way. Don’t wait for another statistic to act. To report suspected abuse, contact my office at csimt.gov or 406-444-2040. You can also reach APS at 1-844-277-9300 or aps.mt.gov.

James Brown, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Montana State Auditor.