According to the U.S. Department of Justice, elder abuse is growing and often goes unreported. About 10% of the American senior population is abused each year and only about 1 in every 23 cases is actually reported. Seniors who are victims of crime and abuse are often dependent on the perpetrator and a variety of feelings such as fear, shame, guilt, financial distress, and mental challenges can prevent them from coming forward.
In 2010, Congress passed the Elder Justice Act (EJA) as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. You can read more about the act here.
In CT, elder justice efforts aim to protect elders with diminished capacity while maximizing their autonomy.” Issues can range from age-based discrimination in the workplace to scams and frauds, elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. As a result, no one state agency can answer every question. The Consumer Assistance Unit of the Office of the Attorney General offers a hotline and refers matters to agencies across state government.
Call 1-860-808-5555 to access information. There is also an online complaint portal here.
The hotline is staffed by the Attorney General’s Office Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. If you are calling after hours, please leave a message.
Looking for more resources and services for older adults? View our community links.
