The third in a series of Elder Justice Workshops invites senior citizens, dependent adults and their caregivers to a Monday workshop on St. Thomas. Organizers working with AARP of the Virgin Islands say those who attend will learn how to protect themselves, their loved ones and their finances from abuse and exploitation.
The session also provides an opportunity for the audience to discuss situations they face in daily life that leave them feeling vulnerable. In some cases, the information shared at Monday’s summit may help others question their own behavior.
One of the concerns expressed throughout the series is the role some family members play in perpetrating abuse, behavior that experts say they may not recognize. Experts say many cases of elder abuse go underreported, highlighting the need for specialized psychological and legal support.
“We felt it necessary (sic) to get certain targeted populations within the community seated in one space, really focus in on elder justice and how they can prevent abuse or any kind of exploitation that happens against them … and what they can do to help protect themselves,” said AARP Associate State Director Pamela Toussaint.
Three speakers are expected to help the audience explore various topics. Jessica Whyte, licensed professional counselor, will explain why reporting abuse is essential and address common fears about turning in family members or losing care support.
Whyte is the lead clinician for the JW Medical Behavioral Health Center on St. Thomas.
A representative from First Bank will explain why it’s important for seniors to guard against financial exploitation in a presentation called Banking Safe. And attorney Shelby King Gaddy from Legal Services of the Virgin Islands will describe the necessity and risks of legal directives: guardianships, powers of attorney, and advanced directives.
“You want to ensure that the documents that you’re signing, they’re legally binding. You want to ensure that you understand all of the documents that you’re signing that you’re not signing away (sic) your finances; you’re not signing away your homes; you’re not signing away, (sic) your treasured assets,” Toussaint said.
Each month since July, AARP, along with the Human Services Department Division of Adult Protective Services, has held Elder Justice Workshops for the law enforcement and banking communities. Toussaint said organizers are encouraged by signs of increased awareness and the willingness of some to report suspected abuse.
The Monday summit is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the My Brother’s Workshop behind Home Depot in Estate Donoe.
St. Croix Source
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