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Massachusetts Launches New Elder Abuse Initiative
October 13 , 2008
An initiative named "LEAPS" (Leaders in Elder Abuse Prevention) was launched in early October 2008 in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, by the Massachusetts Office of Elder Affairs and the Middlesex District Attorney. The D.A.'s office has experienced a 71 percent rise in the cases of elder abuse since 2003 — from 123 cases per year to 210 in 2007.
Senior Population has Grown
Middlesex District Attorney Gerald T. Leone Jr. explained that the LEAPS program will give the senior citizens of the county an easier way to both prevent abuse and report instances of elder abuse when it does happen. He noted, "There are a lot more elderly seniors now. People are living longer…the best thing I know how to do is to bring everyone together who knows how to protect you."
Statewide Increase in Elder Abuse
The Massachusetts Office of Elder Affairs reported having received 14,909 reports of elder abuse in the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2008, with 4,423 confirmed cases. These figures represent 30 percent and 19 percent increases, compared to the corresponding data in 2005.
Assistance from Many Sources
The LEAPS program will train individuals from partner agencies to detect the signs of elder abuse — whether physical, emotional, sexual or financial — and how to better assist the abused. For example, LEAPS will help connect abuse victims with partner agencies that provide financial, food, transportation or health services.
Erin C. Miller, the domestic violence/sexual assault coordinator at Newton-Wellesley Hospital noted, "There is a large social context here, and law enforcement is not going to always be the best solution…we are treating each survivor as holistically as possible."
(Source: The Boston Globe)
Getting Legal Help for Elder Abuse
If you suspect or know that your elderly loved one has been abused in a domestic or healthcare setting, contact us immediately to schedule a private consultation with an experienced elder-abuse attorney. Our nursing home abuse attorneys will ensure your loved one is protected and receives compensation for all physical and psychological damages.
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