Elder Abuse

Program Description

The Elder Abuse Prevention Program is funded primarily by Older American’s Act (Title VII) funds. There is no charge for services provided by this program. Elder abuse is the infliction of physical, emotional, or psychological harm on an older adult. Elder abuse also can take the form of financial exploitation or intentional or unintentional neglect of an older adult by the caregiver.

Who does the program benefit / What are the benefits

Any individual in the State of Kentucky who suspects the possibility of Elder Abuse has the responsibility to report to Adult Protective Services, who provide screening, information, and possible intakes to complete investigations.

The Northern Kentucky Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living utilizes a number of methods to bring awareness to the community concerning the needs of residents in long-term care facilities and other vulnerable adults that may be at risk of elder abuse.

Services offered within the program

A District Ombudsman or volunteer visits all skilled nursing facilities in Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, Owen, and Pendleton Counties a minimum of 4 times a year. The Ombudsman distributes information about resident’s rights, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Information about how to report abuse is also provided and posted at each facility.

Trainings are offered in the facilities and in the community on topics of identification, prevention, reporting, and treating suspected elder abuse. Physical abuse, neglect, scams, identity theft and financial exploitation are some of the topics covered in these trainings.

Contact Information

For more information contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 859.692.2480 or 866.766.2472 or by email at adrc@nkadd.org. You can also contact Bethany Breckel at 859.283.8185.

Resources

Elder Maltreatment Alliance Web Site