Thank You Congressman Doug Collins....

Letter-to-the-Editor

Topic: Thank you Doug Collins for co-sponsoring the Increasing Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act (S3703).

Over the past several months, Georgia’s seniors, especially those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, have faced a whole host of obstacles related the COVID-19 pandemic, including an increased vulnerability to abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

My family has been ravaged by Alzheimer’s disease and I currently have loved ones in care facilities - I can think of nothing more tragic than someone or organization trying to take advantage of my family in these most vulnerable times.

Thankfully, the Increasing Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act, which passed the U.S. Senate unanimously on August 6th, is an important step in protecting all seniors, especially those with dementia, from elder abuse. Police officers, firefighters, social workers, and others will receive training and information on how to look for the signs of elder abuse and how to prevent it. Legislation like this ensures that families like mine can have more peace of mind knowing that our first responders will have the tools they need to intervene and prevent elder abuse.

On behalf of Georgians with dementia and the Alzheimer’s Association, I want to Thank Representative Doug Collins for co-sponsoring of the Increasing Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act. Together, we are taking important steps forward both in the fight against Alzheimer’s and in the fight against elder abuse.

Sincerely,

Rob Polak

Flowery Branch

Member, Board of Directors

Alzheimer’s Association – GA Chapter