HARRISBURG – Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27), together with Journey to Justice, hosted an Elder Abuse Awareness press conference today at the Pennsylvania Capitol to highlight the need to better protect older adults and care-dependent Pennsylvanians from abuse.
The event was held in advance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15 and brought together legislators and advocates to raise awareness about elder abuse.
“Older Pennsylvanians deserve to be protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm,” Culver said. “Today’s event was about standing with families, advocates and care-dependent individuals while working toward stronger safeguards to help prevent abusers from hurting a vulnerable population.”
Journey to Justice founder Lynn Fiedler shared the story of her mother, Alice Longenberger, who endured horrific abuse in a care facility by two young people ultimately charged with 34 counts of abuse, all only misdemeanors.
Alice’s experience is the basis for legislation Culver has introduced, known as Alice’s Law, to establish an Elder Abuse Registry, as well as a bill to increase the penalties for abuse and neglect of a care-dependent person from a misdemeanor to a felony. A third measure would establish an employment review process for individuals seeking positions involving direct care of an older adult.
“This effort is about protecting people who may not always be able to protect themselves,” Culver said. “By increasing awareness and strengthening accountability, we can help make Pennsylvania safer for older adults, families and caregivers who are doing the right thing.”
Joining Culver and Fiedler to share other perspectives on the topic of elder abuse were:
- Kimberly Campbell, Protective Services Supervisor, Union-Snyder Agency on Aging
- Kelly Callihan, Executive Director, Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association
- Kara Bowser, First Deputy Attorney General, PA Office of Attorney General
- Senator Wayne Langerholc, Chair, Senate Aging & Youth Committee
Video: Elder Abuse News Conference