Ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Senator Jan Hochadel, co-chair of the legislature’s Aging Committee, emphasized Friday the critical need for vigilance and proactive engagement to safeguard elderly residents from abuse.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, observed annually on June 15 since 2006, aims to educate the public on recognizing the signs of elder abuse. This abuse can manifest in various forms including neglect, physical, psychological, and financial abuse.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of safeguarding our elderly from neglect and exploitation,” Senator Hochadel said. “It’s essential that everyone remains alert to the signs of elder abuse. Reporting any suspicions can make a significant difference in preventing mistreatment and ensuring the safety of our seniors.”
Senator Hochadel also highlighted recent legislative successes that provide additional protections for Connecticut’s seniors.
“I was proud to help pass two significant bills this year that bolster the safety and quality of life for our seniors,” Senator Hochadel said. “HB5046 brings crucial reforms to nursing homes, including enhancing state oversight or their operations while HB5001 will expand access to high-quality home-based care, enabling more seniors to age in place with dignity and comfort. Despite these policy advances, there is always room for improvement, and I urge everyone in Connecticut to ensure the well-being of their elderly loved ones by staying connected.”
Connecticut has resources for seniors and residents who suspect elder abuse has taken place. The Attorney General’s Office and the Coalition for Elder Justice in Connecticut maintain an Elder Justice Hotline, which can be reached at 1-860-808-5555. Residents can also visit the Long Term Care Ombudsman website for an array of resources for citizens residing in nursing homes.
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