Act to Prevent Abuse of Alzheimer's Patients Moves to the House

To the Editor,

Elder abuse is a growing problem in America. Individuals living with dementia are particularly susceptible -- as many as 62% of the 5.8 million Americans living with dementia experience psychological abuse, and as many as one-fourth experience physical abuse.

Unfortunately, many professionals who deal with elder abuse have little access to training on how to work with people with dementia. They can interpret their actions as uncooperative, disruptive, or combative rather than fully understanding the unique needs of those living with the disease. Thankfully, the Promoting Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act (S. 3703/H.R. 6813) will require elder abuse training specifically for dementia for these professionals with the goal of improving the quality of interactions and ultimately protecting this vulnerable group from elder abuse.

This vital legislation is already on the move and has the support of both of Kentucky’s Senators, Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul. Now, the House must follow suit, and that is why we need Representative John Yarmuth to again be a leader in the fight to protect people living with Alzheimer’s and all other forms of dementia. Please join me in asking Congressman Yarmuth to cosponsor and pass H.R. 6813.

We cannot ignore the severity of this issue, especially during this isolated and unprecedented time in our nation’s history. Together, we can protect some of our most vulnerable neighbors -- the elderly and those living with dementia.

Maxwell Morley
3805 Mamaroneck Rd.
Louisville, KY 40218