Abuse, neglect, exploitation, fraud, scams. Unfortunately, the list goes on. Protecting older people from these risks is certainly not a new concern. However, the federal government is putting renewed attention on the issue with a new Federal Elder Justice Action Plan. When it comes to elder justice, it is worth taking a look.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Elder Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC), recently announced the Federal Elder Justice Action Plan. The plan brings together 17 federal departments and agencies with a common goal. They are working to protect the rights, dignity, independence, and financial security of older people.
The plan focuses on three major priorities. The first addresses fraud and financial exploitation of older people. The second focuses on preventing and reporting abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Finally, the third calls for stronger enforcement and better support for recovery.
There are a lot of moving parts, but one thing jumped out at me: prevention and reporting. The plan calls for clearer guidance on where and how to report abuse and fraud. It also includes national awareness campaigns and additional training for early identification and response. Sound familiar? We talk about identifying changes, communicating concerns, documenting what we see, and reporting when something just doesn’t seem right all the time.
Along with the Action Plan, HHS launched the “Never EVER” campaign. The campaign focuses specifically on government and business imposter scams. The message is pretty simple. Government agencies will never tell someone to move money to “protect it.” They also will not demand unusual forms of payment or ask for a Social Security number to determine eligibility for a government grant.
Why does this matter to senior living? Residents may receive phone calls, emails, text messages, or other communications that appear legitimate. A scammer may claim to represent a government agency or a well-known business. They may create urgency, make threats, or pressure someone to provide money or personal information. Staff who recognize the warning signs may be in a position to notice when something isn’t quite right.
So, what can you do? Take another look at your abuse, neglect, and exploitation education. Do staff know what financial exploitation might look like? Do they know who to notify when they have a concern? What about residents and families? Could information about common scams become part of your resident or family education?
Elder justice is more than having a policy tucked away in a binder. It requires awareness, education, communication, and a willingness to speak up. Take some time to review the Federal Elder Justice Action Plan and the Never EVER campaign. Then bring the conversation back to your community. There may be an opportunity to strengthen what you are already doing.
As I always say, if something doesn’t look right, sound right, or feel right, take another look. You just might prevent someone from becoming the next victim.
Stay well and stay informed!
