Hawkeye Reporter

WASHINGTON – Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) introduced a Senate resolution designating June as “Elder Abuse Awareness Month.” The bipartisan resolution shines a light on instances of exploitation and abuse against America’s senior population and commends those working to assist victims of elder abuse. 

“We should look up to, respect and protect our nation’s senior citizens. Yet America’s 55,000,000 seniors are often targets of scams, abuse and exploitation. I’m glad to once again lead this effort to raise awareness of senior citizens’ rights, and will continue my work in the Senate to combat elder abuse and hold abusers accountable,” Grassley said.

“This resolution recognizes the importance of protecting older adults from scammers, abusers, and others hoping to take advantage of this vulnerable population,” Blumenthal said. “As a member of the Special Committee on Aging, I’ve heard countless stories from seniors in Connecticut and across the country about their experiences with financial, physical, and emotional abuse. It’s on us to stand up for their rights, security, and wellbeing. I’m proud to join Senator Grassley in this effort.”

Grassley has long worked to defend older Americans. His Elder Abuse Prevention and Protection Act, which became law in 2017, increased enforcement measures for those who commit crimes against senior citizens. As a former chairman and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, Grassley also continues to fight for increased transparency and improvement of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes.

The full text of the resolution can be found HERE. 

Original source can be found here.