July is Elder Abuse Awareness month in Illinois.

Department on Aging Director Charles Johnson is announcing the fifth annual "Break the Silence" campaign.

An estimated 80,000 older adults suffer abuse each year.

Elder abuse is defined as neglect; physical injury; mental, sexual or financial exploitation of someone 60 or older.

There were more than 11,000 reports of elder abuse in the last year.

Those who suspect abuse should look for untreated injuries, changes in behavior, a caregiver's refusal to allow visitors, dehydration or malnutrition, or changes in financial accounts.

Trained professional are available around the clock to take reports at 1-866-800-1409.