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June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time to spotlight a serious and often under-discussed issue that affects communities everywhere, including right here in Northeast Ohio. At BrightStar Care of Hudson and Solon, we’re committed to not only providing high-quality home care, but also protecting the safety and dignity of the seniors in our care. Elder abuse is more common than many people think, and it comes in many forms. Whether it’s physical harm, emotional mistreatment, neglect, or financial exploitation, the consequences can be life-altering.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15, is a global call to action. But awareness shouldn't be limited to just one day. Protecting older adults is a year-round responsibility that falls on families, caregivers, professionals, and the broader community. Abuse can happen anywhere—in a private home, a hospital, a long-term care facility, or even during short-term stays at rehab centers. It’s not just something that happens “elsewhere.” It happens in Hudson, Solon, Twinsburg, Macedonia, and the surrounding towns.
Not all abuse leaves physical signs. Emotional abuse can include isolation, manipulation, or verbal threats. Financial abuse might look like unexplained bank withdrawals or sudden changes to wills and legal documents. Neglect, whether intentional or not, often shows up in missed medications, poor hygiene, weight loss, or unsafe living conditions. Sometimes the harm is caused by someone malicious. Other times, it’s due to caregiver burnout, lack of support, or inadequate training.
In our region, many families are trying to balance elder care with work, parenting, and other daily responsibilities. As needs grow more complex, it’s not uncommon for well-meaning caregivers to become overwhelmed. The risk of unintentional neglect increases when people don’t have help. That’s why elder abuse prevention starts not only with awareness but with proactive support for caregivers.
So, what should families and neighbors be watching for? Sudden changes in mood or behavior, bruises or unexplained injuries, reluctance to speak in front of others, or a noticeable decline in living conditions are all red flags. Financial warning signs might include missing funds, unpaid bills, or unfamiliar transactions. If something doesn’t sit right, it’s important to speak up. Asking questions and staying involved is better than assuming everything is fine.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of elder abuse is by bringing in trained, professional caregivers who are equipped to manage both the physical and emotional needs of older adults. At BrightStar Care of Hudson and Solon, we offer a full range of in-home services designed to keep seniors safe, comfortable, and respected. From companion care and personal hygiene assistance to skilled nursing and chronic condition management, our services adapt as our clients' needs evolve.
What makes our approach unique is our emphasis on Registered Nurse oversight. Every care plan is created and monitored by a nurse, which adds a layer of clinical accountability and helps ensure any changes in health or behavior are caught early. Our caregivers are trained not just in hands-on care, but also in communication, ethics, and sensitivity. That means they’re not just meeting physical needs, they’re building trust and recognizing signs when something isn’t right.
We’re proud to serve communities across Hudson, Solon, Twinsburg, Macedonia, and surrounding areas with care that reflects our values. We don’t just step into someone’s home, we become part of their support system. We also understand that caregiving affects the whole family. That’s why we offer respite care to give family caregivers time to recharge and focus on their own well-being. When families feel supported, everyone benefits.
BrightStar Care of Hudson and Solon is also accredited by The Joint Commission, which means we adhere to rigorous national standards for safety, quality, and ethics. This accreditation isn’t just a label for us. It’s a reflection of our commitment to doing the right thing, every time.
As we recognize Elder Abuse Awareness Month, we invite our neighbors to take action. Call or check in on the older adults in your life. Ask how they’re doing. Listen closely. If you’re caring for someone and feeling overwhelmed, don’t wait to reach out for help. You are not alone.
Preventing elder abuse starts with community. It grows with education, trust, and partnership. At BrightStar Care of Hudson and Solon, we are here to help build a safer, more supportive environment for every older adult we serve. If you or a loved one needs home care, reach out. Let’s work together to create a care plan that prioritizes safety, independence, and peace of mind.
BrightStar Care® is Here to Help
At BrightStar Care® of Hudson / Solon, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community. Contact us through our website or call 330-963-7777, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.