COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is sounding the alarm on what he is calling an "unreported epidemic" of elder abuse in Ohio.

During a Thursday morning press conference, Yost said elder abuse in Ohio has seen a 400% increase over the past seven years from physical and emotional abuse to financial and sexual abuse.

Yost says one in 10 Ohioans over the age of 60 are the victims of some sort of abuse, but might not always report it because they're afraid to speak out.

"Often, the victim is reliant on the abuser for themselves or their food. The victim is often related to their abuser and doesn't want the abuser to go to jail," Yost said.

That's why Yost teamed up with the Ohio Bankers League and the Ohio Health Care Association to launch a public awareness campaign to explain what elder abuse is, how it happens and how to report it.

Financial scams targeting elderly people are becoming more common and more sophisticated, so financial institutions are working to help identify red flags like suspicious withdrawals, unusual check writing patterns and sudden wire transfers.

"This partnership matters, and it sends a powerful message to Ohioans that the government and local banks are standing together to protect our most vulnerable neighbors," said Ohio Bankers League President and CEO Mike Adelman.

Meanwhile, healthcare providers are positioned to recognize signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse and guide older Ohioans on how to report it.

Ohioans who suspect elder abuse, neglect or financial exploitation are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or their county's Adult Protective Services Office. 

Further resources can be found here.