Dear Annie: I regularly read your column and have seen stories involving individuals over 60 being taken advantage of or outright abused. Your recent letter from “Desperate Sisters,” the duo that has been caring for their volatile nephew for almost 20 years and are trying to remove him from their home, is a prime example.

I do hope you will continue to support and refer people to domestic violence helplines and resources, but I also urge you to include local elder abuse hotlines in cases involving older adults. Since agencies vary by location, the National Eldercare Locator is a great starting point. Abuse comes in many forms, but laws like the Elder Justice Act protect the vulnerable. If someone, whether a relative, friend, neighbor, home health aide or stranger, is taking money, medication, food, or shelter from an elder without their consent, it’s illegal.

As a former elder abuse investigator, I’ve successfully intervened when law enforcement failed. I’ve helped evict offenders, retrieve money and belongings, and connect victims with resources to ensure their safety. To find the available resources in any U.S. area, the Eldercare Locator can be immensely helpful; their number is 1-800-677-1116, or there is an online locator that requires only entering the elder’s zip code (eldercare.acl.gov). There are many, many resources available to victims of crime, but only if you know where to look for them.

Thank you, and keep being the support you are! — Elder Advocate

Dear Elder Advocate: Thank YOU for your letter and years of service in this area.

Protecting the vulnerable is crucial but especially the elderly who are far too often exploited and abused. I will absolutely continue to spread the word about helplines and now this incredible resource, too.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].