ELDER ABUSE
As a “retirement state” our 65 and older demographic is the fastest growing population in Arizona. It is absolutely critical that we be vigilant about investigating and prosecuting elder abuse and neglect.
Elder abuse, which includes financial exploitation, fraud, physical/sexual abuse and neglect have increased substantially over the past decade. These cases are often severely under-reported due to embarrassment, shame, coercion, or a combination of all. Though tragic, many times a family member or close friend is the perpetrator in these cases.
Long term care facilities (or “nursing homes”) also need more oversight and protections for residents, as a recent report by the Auditor General said “state regulators wrongly downgraded complaints including severe allegations, such as sexual assault and neglect.” This is grossly unacceptable.
When I am Attorney General I vow to make this critical issue a priority. I will:
Aggressively prosecute elder/vulnerable adult abuse and work with County Attorneys to assist them in prosecuting these cases, whether committed by individual caretakers or institutional care facilities;
Immediately investigate the findings of the Auditor General’s report on elder/vulnerable adult abuse and take action;
Create and lead a statewide task force as AG that will include County Attorneys, state health officials, elder/vulnerable adult advocates and legislators to put a spotlight on this critical issue and determine further steps to prevent it;
Advocate for additional funds from the Legislature for investigators to go after elder/vulnerable adult abuse cases.
Work with DHS to ensure that elder/vulnerable adult abuse complaints are being addressed and properly reported in an expeditious manner.
Work with DHS to increase public transparency so people can make informed decisions about their loved one’s long-term care.
Work with all state agencies to ensure we are being proactive versus reactive, especially as it relates to public health and safety.
See next issue: Environment