Area Agency on Aging:
Elder Abuse Prevention

Coordinating Councils

For the Prevention of Elder Abuse

During the past year there were over 45,048 reports of adult abuse in the Commonwealth, and of those reports, 9,660 were reports of abuse to individuals 60 years of age or older. The Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging has helped build local coordinating councils on elder abuse prevention to address this alarming trend. Kentucky is the only state in the country to have such councils.

The Councils play a key role in raising public awareness about elder abuse in their communities. The councils also bring cases to the attention of law enforcement as well as other appropriate authorities in their communities through case review and informational meetings. Membership on the councils include local government officials, police and sheriff departments, parole officers, bankers, senior center staff, in home providers of services, interested members of the community, housing providers, and staff from nursing homes to mention a few.  They are tireless advocates for victims of elder abuse.

If you suspect elder abuse call 1-800-752-6200.  Kentucky is a mandatory reporting state.

Services

The Coordinating Councils for the Prevention of Elder Abuse:

                                                             - Help to protect the safety and dignity of some of our most vulnerable citizens.

                                                             - Provide regular and on-going meetings to discuss Elder Abuse issues, concerns,

                                                               and legislation, as well as information and awareness campaigns.

                                                              - Identify ways in which agencies and institutions can foster better communication

                                                               and understanding to prevent elder abuse, and where needed, intervene on behalf

                                                               of elderly adults.

                                                               - Monitor and work to enact laws protecting older Kentuckians.

Eligibility

The Coordinating Councils membership is free and open to any and all interested community members, agency representatives, and concerned citizens.

Application

There is no application to attend a meeting or become a member of any of the area Coordinating Councils for the Prevention of Elder Abuse.  Simply contact the Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living at the number below to obtain the contact information for the individual in charge of Council meetings in your area.  They will be able to tell you when and where local meetings take place.  If your call is not immediately answered leave a message, clearly stating your name, telephone number, and your interest.  Your call will be returned.

Contact

Mary Crowley Schmidt – Aging Planner and Assistant Director

Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living

699 Perimeter Drive

Lexington, KY  40517

(859) 269-8021

(859) 269-7917 (FAX)

maryc@bgadd.org

M – F  8:00AM – 4:30PM