Training to help spot elder abuse

Medics and lifesavers who often are the first to arrive in an emergency require more training to help them identify and document cases of abuse and neglect involving the elderly, authorities said.

That's why members of a Kane County task force that investigates elder abuse are sponsoring a workshop June 11 for EMT's, paramedics and other first responders.

The workshop, When the Elderly Are Victims, an Elder Abuse Conference for First Responders, is from 9 a.m. to noon in the Academic and Professional Center at Waubonsee Community College's Sugar Grove campus, located off Route 47.

Medics have an opportunity to learn about identifying elder abuse, who to contact and how to fill out reports and preserve evidence, which could aid prosecutors in pursuing criminal charges.

Speakers include members of Kane County's Elder Fatality Review Team, the Illinois Department on Aging and the Chicago Fire Department.

Registration and breakfast begins at 8 a.m. The conference is free for medical first responders. The deadline to register is Thursday.

For additional information, contact Mary Moon at (630) 208-5324 or via e-mail at moonmary@co.kane.il.us.