Assemblymember Dodd Helps Bring Awareness to Elder Abuse

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

SACRAMENTO, CA –Assemblymember Bill Dodd (D-Napa) has authored a resolution proclaiming June as Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse Awareness Month. The resolution passed the Assembly with bipartisan support and is now scheduled to be heard in the state Senate.

“Seniors are unfortunately often targets for abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It’s critical that we provide our seniors with the resources and protection they need and deserve,” said Assemblymember Bill Dodd. “We need to support and respect our seniors year round, and this resolution helps provide a statewide recognition of this issue and gives advocates around the state a perfect opportunity to work collaboratively to help end this abuse.”

Each year, millions of vulnerable and older adults are victims of physical and financial abuse and neglect. One in 10 Americans over 60 years of age suffer abuse each year, and the National Center on Elder Abuse concluded in a recent study that 11 percent of all the elder abuse cases in America occur in California. Adults with developmental disabilities are also victimized at shocking levels. California also has the fastest growing senior population in the nation. The designation of June as a month to reflect and take action to help end abuse coincides with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is June 15th.  

“The state of California needs to do a better job serving and protecting seniors and vulnerable adults. Providing a better state for our residents is a top priority for me, and I will continue to work to address these problems.” Dodd said.

The passage of this resolution comes on the heels of the Assembly passing Assemblymember Dodd’s legislation that would identify better ways to help seniors access critical state resources. Assemblymember Dodd, has also been scheduling free fraud prevention town halls throughout his district in conjunction with the State Bar to provide constituents with practical tips to protect themselves and their families.

Assemblymember Bill Dodd represents the 4th Assembly District, which includes all or portions of Yolo, Napa, Sonoma, Lake, Solano, and Colusa Counties. More information on Assemblymember Dodd’s Fraud Prevention Town Halls can be found in the Event Section of his website, found here.