Alamance County Launches Coordinated Response to Abuse in Later Life

United Way of Alamance County led a community kickoff on November 20, 2025 at the Alamance County Dream Center to begin building a coordinated local response to Abuse in Later Life. The half day event, held from 8 30 a.m. to 12 30 p.m., convened partners and stakeholders from government agencies, social service providers, health systems, and community organizations to align resources and protocols aimed at preventing and responding to abuse of older adults.

Organizers described the initiative as a county effort to close gaps that leave older residents, particularly those with limited mobility or financial resources, at risk of neglect, financial exploitation, and other forms of mistreatment. By bringing diverse agencies together, the initiative aims to streamline referrals, improve training for front line workers, and create clearer pathways for reporting and intervention.

The public health implications are significant. Abuse in later life increases medical needs, exacerbates chronic conditions, and contributes to social isolation and mental health challenges. A coordinated response can reduce duplicative services, speed protective actions for victims, and allow health care providers to identify abuse earlier. For Alamance County, that means potentially lower emergency room visits, more timely access to supportive services, and stronger prevention efforts in homes and long term care settings.

Community impact will be felt most by older adults and their families who face barriers to help. The initiative recognizes that systemic issues such as transportation challenges, language access, and economic inequality can prevent people from getting help. Building cross sector partnerships is a step toward equity by targeting resources to underserved neighborhoods and populations that research and local advocates say are often overlooked.

The kickoff also created an opportunity for local agencies to discuss policy implications, including standardized reporting practices and the need for sustained funding for adult protective services and community based supports. United Way encouraged community members and professionals who did not attend to learn more and engage through the event page on Eventbrite. For questions, organizers provided contact information for Latawnya Hall at latawnya.hall@alamancecountync.gov and 336 290 0342.