NCJ Number
145398
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: (1991) Pages: 65-71
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article looks at past and current initiatives considered by Congress to address the problem of elder abuse.
Abstract
This article provides an overview of the legislative history of Federal efforts to prevent and control elder abuse. Congress made its first effort at funding elder abuse prevention programs through the 1987 Amendments to the Older Americans Act (P.L. 100-175). Progress was made in 1990 when $2.9 million was finally appropriated for elder abuse prevention activities. While this is viewed as movement in a positive direction, this article reflects the view that the Federal Government's response to this problem has been inadequate. Since Congress first brought to light the issue of elder abuse at hearings in Boston in 1979, the States and local governments have taken the lead in initiating many successful programs. The author is critical of the lack of Federal leadership. Congress is beginning to take a more serious look at the problem, however. Among the issues being raised is whether the problem can be addressed through existing laws or if a new law is needed and whether mandatory reporting of suspected abuse is appropriate.