Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced earlier this month that his office is partnering with the Ohio Bankers League and the Ohio Health Care Association on a statewide campaign to increase awareness about elder abuse AND intercept financial exploitation before it ever does its damage.

The Ohio Pharmacists Association is already part of the group, which will help front-line professionals learn how to spot abuse. That kind of training is important if we are to support a population that can be more vulnerable to scams, fraud and exploitation.

“Elder abuse doesn’t always leave bruises,” Yost said. “Sometimes it looks like unusual withdrawals or a sudden change in financial behavior. Our financial institutions are a first line of defense.”

Bankers — particularly tellers — can learn to spot the signs that someone is being scammed. Health care professionals have the tools and training to recognize signs of abuse and encourage reporting of the crime. Pharmacies have an opportunity, given the likelihood seniors will interact with them more frequently.

“Too many older Ohioans suffer in silence,” said Sara Kilpatrick, executive director and CEO of the Ohio Pharmacists Association. “Pharmacists are in a unique position to help protect and support these vulnerable neighbors.”

It is an important effort. And while professionals receive their training and are encouraged to help potential victims report what is happening to them, they should not be alone in the effort. If you know someone who could fall victim to elder abuse or financial exploitation, talk to them. Help them understand what to watch for, and be a safe space for them to talk about what they are facing — perhaps even offering support in the reporting process. They need allies.

“When you’re dealing with an epidemic, you need a big army,” Yost said.

His office continues to bring on official partners in the fight. The rest of us must do our part, too.