Legislation to better protect Pennsylvania’s senior citizen population by overhauling the Older Adult Protective Services Act (OAPSA) was approved by the Senate today (October 29), according to Senator Dan Laughlin.
“The bill we passed sets up important safeguards to better protect the health and financial well-being of Pennsylvania’s older residents,” said Senator Laughlin. “It is truly unfortunate that we need to pass a bill like this, but we also need to take every step possible to catch anyone who would abuse our seniors.”
Senate Bill 819 amends the OAPSA to streamline communications between organizations and agencies that care for seniors, and find ways to increase health care efficiency. It also addresses the rise of financial exploitation of older Pennsylvanians by giving financial institutions tools to intervene if they suspect an elder is being victimized.
To combat physical abuse, the measure provides mandatory reporters (physicians, health care providers and police) with a procedure for reporting suspected abuse and gives them the tools to work together during the investigation process.
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Contact: Matt Azeles mazeles@pasen.gov