Governor Creates Elder Abuse Task Force

SPRINGFIELD--Governor George H. Ryan today announced the names of 31 individuals who will serve on a new Elder Abuse Task Force that will focus on helping thousands of Illinois seniors who are financially abused.

"Findings from the recent Summit on Aging that I convened reinforce the need to better protect vulnerable older people in Illinois from fraud and other crimes," the Governor said. "The job this task force will be to strengthen these efforts."

The Governor named Lt. Governor Corinne Wood as Honorary Chair of the new Task Force. As a State Representative, Wood sponsored legislation strengthening the state's ability to respond to elder abuse. Illinois Department on Aging Director Margo E. Schreiber will serve as Chair of the Task Force.

The Task Force will be asked to foster educational efforts and to recommend policies and/or legislation relating to the prevention of financial exploitation, consumer fraud and telemarketing. Emphasis will also be placed on maximizing resources to address current gaps in services.

Through the Elder Abuse and Neglect Program, the Department annually responds to nearly 8,000 reports of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Community elder abuse provider agencies receive abuse reports, conduct assessments, and provide casework and follow-up services for many cases.

"An average of half of all reports involve financial exploitation, about one- third allege neglect, and about one-fourth involve physical abuse," Schreiber said.

"People often find it surprising to learn that elder abuse is a family problem, with three out of four abusers being a spouse, child or other relative. About 75 percent of the alleged victims are women, and the average age is 78," she added.

The task force, which includes a cross-section of professionals representing legal, banking, and social service and advocacy networks, will work in conjunction with the Department on Aging to formulate recommendations for the Governor and General Assembly.

The list of Elder Abuse Task Force members is attached.