Tom Dinki/WBFO News
Buffalo officials observed World Elder Abuse Awareness Day following a year and pandemic that in many ways pushed older adults to the forefront.
The occasion has been officially recognized by the United Nations since 2011, but the local law enforcement and human services officials who gathered Tuesday outside Erie County Hall say there’s been more attention on older adults over the last year due to COVID-19 than any year they can remember.
“It's about time,” said Kathy Kanaley, president of the Erie County Council on Elder Abuse. “I've been in this business a long time and seen all kinds of stuff. Finally shedding light on these issues and having the community response, the media response, is great.”