SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - South Dakota has adopted several recommendations from the Elder Abuse Task Force, including criminalizing emotional abuse against the state's oldest residents.
Erik Nelson with AARP South Dakota says the next step is an education campaign to help seniors better understand the new protections.
Nelson says AARP will conduct outreach and awareness to health professionals, law enforcement, family caregivers and victims and the general public about how the Elder Abuse Task Force bill is going to impact them in a good way.
Nelson says the new protections will help the state better track abuse cases by providing new ways for victims and family to report abuse.
He says elder abuse is a serious concern today in South Dakota, but as the state's population continues to age, it will continue to be a growing concern in the future.
According to the Department of Social Services more than 600 adult protective service calls are made annually.
(Thanks Greater Dakota News Service)