Julie Lelek
Third Committee Advisor
New York, New York
October 6, 2021
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Independent Expert Mahler.
Older adults deserve to age with dignity and have equitable access to the long-term care system, regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, or socioeconomic status. The Biden-Harris Administration commits to expanding access to health care, nutrition, caregiving, and opportunities to age in place for older Americans.
Last May the United States directed $1.4 billion dollars from the American Rescue Plan towards Older Americans Act programs, including programs to protect older adults.
The Elder Justice Act provides funding for adult protective services; requires reporting of crimes in long-term care facilities; and establishes the Elder Justice Coordinating Council to coordinate U.S. government activities on elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
The Office of Elder Justice and Adult Protective Services oversees elder abuse prevention, legal assistance, and pension counseling programs.
Legal assistance and elder rights programs under the Older Americans Act assist in cases involving financial exploitation, consumer fraud, physical abuse, and neglect.
I will conclude with a question. What can governments do to encourage older women to come forward and report instances of abuse?
Thank you, Independent Expert Mahler.
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